LAS VEGAS - Four teenagers involved in the fatal beating of a student near Rancho High School appeared in Las Vegas Justice Court on Tuesday morning, where they were formally charged with second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit battery with substantial bodily harm. The Clark County District Attorney, Steve Wolfson, stated that the acts were not premeditated, leading to the decision to pursue second-degree murder charges rather than first degree.

The defendants, Dontral Beaver (16), Gianni Robinson (17), Damien Hernandez (17), and Treavion Randolph (16), made their initial appearance in adult court last Friday. Due to the severity of the crime, they are being charged as adults. As a precautionary measure, the judge ordered the teens to be held without bail at the Clark County Juvenile Detention Center until their next court hearing on December 14.

The incident revolves around the attack on 17-year-old Jonathan Lewis during a dispute over stolen items. Disturbing video footage of the incident showed Lewis being assaulted by a group of teens, who kicked and punched him while he was on the ground. The coroner's report listed Lewis's cause of death as complications from multiple blunt-force injuries.

Law enforcement officials have identified a total of ten individuals involved in the beating, with four additional suspects currently in the juvenile system awaiting certification to be tried as adults. Authorities confirmed the arrest of a ninth suspect a few days ago, but a tenth individual, considered a "person of interest," remains at large.

The trial for the four defendants charged with second-degree murder will proceed together in court. While they await their next court appearance, the justice system will ensure their continued detention to ensure public safety. As the case unfolds, the community is left grappling with the tragic outcome of a violent altercation among teenagers.

This incident serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of escalated conflicts and the importance of resolving disputes peacefully. The upcoming court proceedings will shed further light on the motivations and actions of all involved parties, offering a chance for justice to prevail in this heartbreaking case.