Marchersh peaceful outside hearing in gang killing case

Police kept Indians on the south side of the courthouse and Hispanics on the north to prevent any violence. But many marchers from both sides crossed the street and joined in a peaceful rally.

Speakers called for a united effort to stop any further violence and to ensure that the court proceedings are conducted fairly. Some criticized authorities for trying to keep them apart, saying that would only increase tensions.

Signs included one carried by a Hispanic that said "Where is justice?" Another held by an Indian said "What happened to civil rights?"

The Justice Court preliminary hearing was expected to continue through Saturday for the defendants charged in the death of Sam Resendez, 25, one of the founders of a Hispanic gang known as the Eastwood Tokers.

Resendenz died of massive head injuries and another man, Alberto Lainez, was beaten. They were attacked after a young Indian woman at a motel room party was knocked to the ground by a member of the Tokers. She left to get help, and returned to the motel with a dozen or more young Washoes.

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