Closing arguments were held Monday in the homicide trial of Pedro Junior Paulino and David Isaiah Rivera, who are charged in connection with the February 2, 2025 shooting outside BKK Lounge on Union Boulevard.
Ivan Diaz Jr., 32, was killed in the shooting and three other people were wounded. Authorities previously said Diaz died after suffering multiple gunshot wounds.
Investigators say the violence began with a fight inside the lounge before the confrontation moved outside. Authorities allege Rivera and Paulino later fired multiple shots toward a group of people in the parking lot.
Surveillance video showing portions of the incident was played for jurors during the trial.
During closing arguments Monday, attorneys for the defense argued Diaz had been drinking while working security at the lounge, was not clearly dressed as a security guard and appeared to be acting aggressively during the confrontation.
Prosecutors presented a different account, arguing Rivera and Paulino were looking for trouble that night. Prosecutors pointed to an earlier altercation involving Rivera shortly after he entered the lounge and argued the defendants had opportunities to leave rather than return to the confrontation.
Authorities previously alleged surveillance footage showed Rivera retrieving a firearm from a vehicle after being removed from the lounge before shots were fired outside. Investigators reported finding evidence that at least 10 shots had been fired.
Rivera was arrested shortly after the shooting, while Paulino later surrendered to authorities. Both were charged with homicide and other offenses related to the shooting.
The jury began deliberations Monday following closing arguments.
First Source News will provide an update once a verdict is announced.
