San Diego

Just after a gang member was ordered to stand trial Friday on charges of murder and attempted robbery, his accomplice and main witness against him was sentenced in the case involving the fatal shooting of a liquor store owner.

Manuelito Manatad, 21, was ordered to stand trial after a 1 1/2-day preliminary hearing by Municipal Judge Charles L. Patrick. Manatad will remain in custody in lieu of $1-million bail until his arraignment in Superior Court Feb. 20.

Meanwhile, Ernesto B. Baluyot, 22, was sentenced to 12 years and eight months in state prison after he pleaded guilty to charges of accessory to murder, robbery and auto theft.

Baluyot was sentenced hours after completing testimony against Manatad.

According to Deputy Dist. Atty. Rupert Linley, the two men were driving around area beaches on the afternoon of Aug. 20 when Manatad received a message on his pager. Baluyot drove to the Riviera Liquor House at 4114 W. Point Loma Blvd. so his friend could use the phone, Linley said.

However, after looking around, Manatad told Baluyot he was going to rob the store, Linley said.

During testimony at Manatad’s preliminary hearing this week, Baluyot said Manatad went into the store and he soon heard a gunshot, Linley said.

Killed in the incident was Sabah San Antwan, 38. No money was taken from his store.

Linley said he would announce at Manatad’s arraignment if he would file special circumstance allegations, which could lead to the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.