Friend opens up about murdered Exeter police officer, ex-wife charged with 1st degree murder
Erika Sandoval was also at the crime scene Friday night. Action News watched her sob after detectives confirmed Green was dead. Now prosecutors say Sandoval was at the home earlier in the day waiting for her chance to kill the Exeter Police Officer.
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The best friend of murdered Exeter police officer Daniel Green opens up about his life outside of work on the same day Green's ex-wife is charged with first degree murder.
Erika Sandoval was also at the crime scene Friday night. Action News watched her sob after detectives confirmed Green was dead. Now prosecutors say Sandoval was at the home earlier in the day waiting for her chance to kill the Exeter Police Officer.
A law enforcement procession carrying the body of the 31-year-old officer went from the coroner's office to a funeral home Tuesday.
One of Green's best friends, fellow Exeter Police Officer Paul Walker was one of the first to stand watch starting late Tuesday night.
"He was probably one of the best people I've ever met," Walker said. "His life revolved around his son. His son was his world. Everything else was secondary."
Walker and green rode together in uniform for a while. He says green was an intelligent officer with a knack for solving cases. The two became best friends after they began working out together. Walker says Green's murder has been a horrific ordeal.
"I was told what happened and asked to come to the scene and my wife literally had to pull me out of the store," Walker said. "I just couldn't believe it. Just couldn't believe it."
Green, a 10-year veteran of Exeter police, was found shot to death in his home in Goshen Friday. That night Action News saw Green's apparently grieving ex-wife arrive at the crime scene. Video shows her walking with a detective toward the home.
Tuesday the Tulare County District Attorney announced her murder charge. The DA says Sandoval waited inside the home to make a surprise attack. "It is potentially a death penalty case alternatively life without parole that is if the special allegation is proven," said DA Tim Ward.
Walker doesn't know Sandoval much, but he isn't surprised she is accused in his friend's murder.
"As a police officer he could have made enemies anywhere, obviously," Walker said. "But my first thought after the initial shock, is that's probably what happened."
It won't bring Green back, but Walker is relieved a suspect is in custody.
Sandoval pleaded not guilty Tuesday. She will not be back in court until next month. She and Green had a son together. The two-year-old is with Green's family until custody is sorted out, we're told.
