San Diego man gets 18 years to life for killing Little League coach

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The family of a popular Little League coach packed a San Diego courtroom Wednesday as the man convicted of his murder was sentenced to 18 years to life in prison.

Eric Carroll Vargas, 26, was shot and killed in July 2022 after an argument at a liquor store on Federal Boulevard. Ryan Stewart, the man convicted in the case, apologized to the victim’s family during the sentencing, but emotions ran high as loved ones shared how the loss had devastated their lives.

“It’s been the worst 856 days,” said Vargas’ mother, Stephanie Olivares, tearfully. “I’ve cried every day since.”

Prosecutors said the deadly encounter began as a dispute inside the store. When Vargas stepped outside, Stewart, a convicted felon and active gang member, pistol-whipped him, and fired the gun, striking Vargas in the head. He died days later, leaving behind a young daughter.

“She’s a beautiful little queen,” said his father, Johnnie Vargas. “Now we all take the responsibility of raising her because of the decision he made that night.”

Vargas’ death has devastated many in the community he served, especially at the Sunshine Little League in City Heights, where he coached and mentored young players.

“He was a role model, a mentor, a source of strength for many young kids without fathers, parents,” his father added.

Stewart’s family also spoke, describing his struggles after losing his mother to cancer and pleading for leniency.

“He’s not a cold-blooded murderer,” Stewart’s sister said. “He’s a brother, an uncle, a son.”

Despite their appeals, the judge handed Stewart the maximum sentence for second-degree murder, noting that he was prohibited from possessing a gun due to his criminal history.

“I will never forgive you for this,” Olivares said, her voice breaking. “I will carry this hatred in my heart for you until the day I die.”

Stewart, who expressed remorse during the hearing, told the family he was “sorry” for his actions.