Story perspectives

Trial Begins for Man Accused of 2019 Bludgeon Murders

1/30/2026

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Santos' Insanity Defense

Randy Santos, the defendant, is on trial in New York City for the 2019 bludgeoning deaths of four men.
Defense claims he has schizophrenia and heard voices compelling him to kill.
Santos acknowledged attacks but argues he is not criminally responsible due to mental illness.
Prosecutors contend he understood his actions and consequences.
If convicted, he faces life in prison, and if acquitted by insanity, he could be committed.

Right

Calderon Charged After Fire

Samuel Calderon, 55, who has a history of more than 25 arrests, was arrested on murder and manslaughter charges after four-alarm Bronx high-rise fire killed Ronald McAllister, 60.
Authorities say Calderon reportedly dismantled a stove and ruptured a gas line.
He fled the scene and was later apprehended while picking up mail.
Five others were hospitalized.
FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore praised more than 230 first responders who battled the blaze.

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Santos' Insanity Defense

Randy Santos, the defendant, is on trial in New York City for the 2019 bludgeoning deaths of four men.
Defense claims he has schizophrenia and heard voices compelling him to kill.
Santos acknowledged attacks but argues he is not criminally responsible due to mental illness.
Prosecutors contend he understood his actions and consequences.
If convicted, he faces life in prison, and if acquitted by insanity, he could be committed.

1 / 2