Double-Fatal Yakima Moneytree Shooting Suspect Pleads Not Guilty

The former employee of the Moneytree payday loan store in Yakima accused of fatally shooting two young female employees March 26th has entered his plea.

Manuel Enrique Verduzco, 26, of Selah, was arrested a short time after fatally shooting Karina Morales-Rodriguez and Martha Martinez early that Saturday morning outside the Moneytree store near Walnut and First Street. Authorities say his ulterior motive was to rob the store, but obviously something went wrong, however, they're not saying what at this time. The two woman had arrived early to being the process of opening the store that morning.

He is also facing First-Degree Robbery charges besides two counts of First-Degree murder. Verduzco plead not guilty to the charges, in the incident that shocked the community, and drew comments and statements of shock and support from the Moneytree national headquarters.

As Verduzco plead not guilty to all three counts, the Judge asked news media NOT to show his face on camera or pictures. No reason was given, but it's presumed for his safety. There are unconfirmed reports there may have been death threats against the suspect.

  A separate hearing has been scheduled for May 6th to consider bringing in the death penalty in this case, despite the fact that Gov. Inslee has suspended all executions on death row in Walla Walla while a 'review' of the death penalty process takes place.