Overview
- Police found 25‑year‑old Victoria Castle unresponsive in a ground‑floor apartment and emergency responders performed CPR before she was pronounced dead at a hospital.
- Prosecutors allege Joseph Horner attacked Castle from behind, put her in a chokehold until she went limp and then sexually assaulted her before calling 911.
- Horner, 27, pleaded not guilty at his arraignment and a judge remanded him without bail while issuing an order of protection for his wife.
- The Oceanside School District placed Horner on administrative leave and said officials were told the allegations have no connection to students.
- Prosecutors say Horner could face 25 years to life if convicted of second‑degree murder, the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.