02/21/2012, 12:57 pm

Charles Stanley

Authorities have identified the shooting victim of the home invasion south of Earlville Sunday as Raymond Maldonado, 22, of Turlock, Calif.

At about 3 a.m., Marcus E. Samarripa, 24, of Turlock, Calif., and Maldonado forcibly entered a home at 4444 E. 1553rd Road — County Highway One — just south of Earlville. The residence is the home of Joel V. Contreras, 47.

Contreras was armed and confronted Samarripa and Maldonado, who had a pistol. Contreras shot Maldonado twice. He was pronounced dead at Mendota Community Hospital and Samarripa fled, but was caught shortly after on Ottawa's North Side by Ottawa police.

Deputies found marijuana growing in the home's basement, leading to a charge against Contreras of production of marijuana plants.

On Tuesday, bond was set at $100,000 for Contreras, who was allegedly growing 35 marijuana plants in his home.

However, since Contreras is an illegal resident, even if he posts bail of $10,000 cash, he still might not be released, said Associate Judge Dan Bute.

La Salle County Chief Deputy State's Attorney Todd L. Martin told Bute Tuesday morning that U.S. Immigration Services may have placed a hold on Contreras, who previously had been deported. Martin said Contreras' wife also may be an illegal resident.

Samarripa was taken to the La Salle County Jail. Bute said his bond would remain at $1 million.

Samarripa's next hearing is set for 9 a.m. on Friday, March 2. Contreras will next be in court at 9 a.m. on Friday, March 9.

Immigration status may block release of man who shot home invader - MyWebTimes.com