SAN DIEGO (KGTV) – A man accused of killing an elderly San Diegan at a Rolando veterinary clinic pleaded not guilty Monday.
Patrick O’Brien, 37, faces a murder charge in connection with the June 15 death of 88-year-old Clark Kelly at the Boulevard Animal Clinic in the 7000 block of El Cajon Boulevard.
Through his attorney, O’Brien pleaded not guilty to one count of murder.
A friend of Kelly’s family told ABC 10news that family members were too distraught to attend Monday’s hearing.
San Diego Police believe Kelly “interrupted a possible burglary,” which then led to a confrontation between him and the suspect O’Brien.
Police said Kelly suffered injuries, including a head wound, during the confrontation. Kelly was taken to the hospital for treatment but died from his injuries.
According to police, officers found that a concerned citizen had detained O’Brien behind the clinic.
O’Brien is being held without bail -- something his attorney said may be revisited in the future.
Court records show a preliminary hearing for O’Brien is scheduled for July 1.
A GoFundMe was established to help the victim's family.
