Joe Torrez, the amateur mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter who killed a man during an attempted home invasion earlier this year near Dona Ana County, New Mexico (details), can breathe a sigh of relief, as he won't be facing any charges for the death of 25-year old Sal Garces.
That's according to a report from KOB4, which reveals that the Dona Ana County sheriff's investigation -- which included interviews, fingerprint, DNA analysis and an autopsy report -- concluded there was not enough evidence to prove Torrez killed Garces without "legal justification."
From District Attorney Mark D'Antonio's statement:
"The decision not to charge Mr. Torrez is based on the facts and the forensic evidence presented by DASO. In particular, it was the scientific evidence that led to that conclusion."
On Jan., 1, 2014, four men, including Garces, barged into the home of Torrez who was there along with his fiancee and infant daughter. What resulted was an all out brawl the left Garces dead of multiple stab wounds and another one of his accomplices with severe facial lacerations.
Listen to the disturbing audio of the attack during the 911 call here.
Since then, the three other assailants, whose ages range from 19-23, have been arrested and charged with numerous felonies such as conspiracy to commit aggravated battery, conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary, and criminal damage to property.
Two women, ages 18 and 20, who accompanied the attackers have also been arrested and charged with aggravated burglary, aggravated battery, and one count each of conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary.
Thankfully, Torrez' fiancee and child were not hurt during the attack, which prosecutors said was an attempt to settle an unresolved issue with the MMA-trained fighter.