Charles Starzynski, 70, was shot and killed outside the Sutter Lawn Tennis Club in Sacramento on October 20, 2022, around 12:30 p.m. He had been at the club for his regular game of pinochle and lunch with friends when an attempted robbery left him with at least one fatal gunshot wound; police found him already deceased at the scene.

Starzynski was a longtime Capital Public Radio figure, known there as a classical music announcer, reporter, producer and program director. The investigation led to the arrest of 23-year-old Desean Brasser Jr., who was charged with murder and first-degree robbery and held in the Sacramento County Main Jail without bail pending court proceedings. Police later identified and arrested a second 23-year-old suspect, Tajaenae Cooper, after evidence linked that person to the homicide. Authorities say the two followed Starzynski from a bank to the club and attempted to rob him.

The community reacted with grief and outrage, with public officials calling out rising gun violence. Starzynski’s colleagues and listeners remember his long service at CapRadio. If anyone knew Charles, saw him that day, or has information about the incident, please share what is known with investigators.