Suspect enters plea in fatal Walla Walla shooting, trial set for March

WALLA WALLA – A 27-year-old man pleaded not guilty Thursday morning to first-degree murder and harassment – threat to kill in connection with a fatal shooting last week. Jordan James Savage appeared in Walla Walla County Superior Court, where he remains held on $2 million bond.

Authorities allege Savage fatally shot Arturo Serrato Martinez, 49, on Jan. 21 near the intersection of North Sixth Avenue and West Elm Street in Walla Walla. Following a 48-hour search, Savage was apprehended while sleeping in a vehicle at Columbia Park in the Tri-Cities.

During an earlier court appearance, Savage told officials he lived in his van and worked as a DoorDash driver. The prosecution also said Savage allegedly threatened to kill an eyewitness at gunpoint.

While authorities stated that Savage allegedly admitted to the shooting, his formal plea on Thursday shifts the case toward trial. The court has scheduled a pre-trial for Feb. 18 with Savage’s trial to commence on March 23.

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