Son and mother plead not guilty in Costa Mesa grocery store shooting that resulted in victim’s paralysis, according to authorities.

A 37-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder and multiple other felonies following an incident in a Stater Bros. parking lot in Costa Mesa, California, on August 18. Authorities allege that Rodney Otis Rich shot a victim, resulting in permanent paralysis along with serious brain injuries.

Rich entered a plea of not guilty on August 20 to a series of charges, which include one felony count each of attempted murder, assault with a semiautomatic firearm, and possession of a stolen and loaded gun in public. Additionally, he faces charges as a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, as outlined in a criminal complaint. Records indicate that Rich has a prior felony conviction for making criminal threats in April 2021.

Prosecutors have indicated that the charges against Rich also carry felony sentencing enhancements. These enhancements are related to the serious nature of the victim’s injuries, which include brain damage and paralysis, as well as allegations that the shooting was premeditated.

Alongside Rich, his mother, 63-year-old Tamie Sue Walker, has also been charged. Authorities have cited her involvement in the incident as involving resisting and obstructing an officer, a misdemeanor offense.

Costa Mesa police responded to the parking lot of the grocery store located in the 2100 block of Newport Boulevard at approximately 7:35 a.m., where they discovered the gunshot victim. The identity of the victim, including their gender and age, has not been disclosed by authorities. Reports indicate that the victim was in critical condition and required hospitalization, according to Roxi Fyad, a spokesperson for the Costa Mesa police.

Later that same day, police apprehended Rich and Walker at an apartment complex situated just blocks away from the scene of the shooting. Court records state that Rich is currently being held without bail, while Walker has been released without the necessity of posting bond. Both individuals pleaded not guilty to the charges during their court appearance on Thursday. The case raises significant concerns regarding public safety and gun violence in the community, as it unfolds.

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