After being charged earlier today, James Joshua Lopez, the alleged murderer of Amanda Torres, faces 26 years to life in prison if convicted.
Tragedy struck the dance music community in Los Angeles when the news broke that a stabbing had occurred outside of an underground event, leading to the death of the victim, Amanda “Mandi” Torres. Today, District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced that a man, James Joshua Lopez, has been charged with the murder in connection to the stabbing on January 26. His arraignment has been set for March 3.
James Joshua Lopez, a 24-year-old from Los Angeles, was arrested and charged earlier today. He faces one count of murder with an allegation of personal use of a deadly and dangerous weapon, and his bail has been set at $2.02 million. If convicted as charged, Lopez faces up to 26 years to life in prison.
“This horrific and senseless act of violence took the life of a young woman who dedicated herself to making her community better,” District Attorney Hochman said. “Amanda Torres was a bright, compassionate leader with limitless potential, and our hearts break for her family, friends, and everyone whose lives she touched. She recently graduated from UCLA and was a community organizer. My office will fight to ensure justice is served for Amanda and her loved ones.”
The community quickly sprung into action in response to the stabbing, which took place outside of an underground event in downtown Los Angeles hosted by Space Yacht, CYBER RODEO, and UNDERWAR3. The sister and cousin of Amanda Torres launched the @JusticeForMandi Instagram account and created a GoFundMe for their family.
Additionally, the community was asked to help in the search, leading to footage that surfaced from local home and business surveillance company Discounted Security Cameras, which was turned in to the Los Angeles Police Department. It is currently unknown whether that footage helped police officers locate the alleged murderer.
A memorial service honoring Amanda Torres’ life will occur on Friday, February 7, at McWane Family Funeral Home in Hemet and is open to anyone who would like to pay their respects. Information can be found on the Dignity Memorial website.