BAKERSFIELD, CA - A Bakersfield teen accused of shooting and killing his stepfather is now charged with first-degree murder. The district attorney office says the 17-year-old will also be tried as an adult.
A large group of Kody Ryan's family and friends showed up Monday afternoon for his arraignment. But with no bail, they won't be seeing him outside of court or Juvenile Hall anytime soon.
Ryan stood and stared emotionless as the judge read the first-degree murder charge against the teen. Ryan is accused of shooting his 37-year-old stepfather Derick Mitchell Wednesday evening in a quiet northwest Bakersfield neighborhood. Details surrounding the shooting are not available yet.
Bakersfield Police say the case was referred to the D.A.'s office Monday morning. Deputy District Attorney Andrea Kohler would not comment on why her office is charging Ryan as an adult.
Ryan's attorney, H.A. Sala, did not want to comment on camera, but said he was not surprised his client was charged as an adult. Ryan's next court date is set for August 13.