The man accused of brutally beating architect Graham Downes appeared in court Tuesday.
Higinio Soriano Salgado, 31, pleaded not guilty to attempted murder. The judge set bail at $3 million.
“Our concern is the flight risk,” prosecutor Amy Maund said. “The investigation has shown that he has ties to Mexico and is currently building a residence in Mexico.”
Downes, 55, remains in the hospital, but he is not expected to survive, officials tell NBC 7. Once he is pronounced dead, the attempted murder charge will likely be changed to murder. A status hearing is scheduled for Friday.
Police found Downes unconscious outside his Bankers Hill home Friday morning. Prosecutors say he suffered multiple skull fractures and severe facial injuries.
Prosecutors say Salgado was a current employee at Downes’s firm.
The victim is known for designing the Hard Rock Hotel, Tower 23 and other San Diego hotels and restaurants.