Aurora Man Apologizes to Martinez Family, Accepts Responsibility in Ritual Case
AURORA — Carter Eslick offered a direct apology Wednesday to the family of Martinez, telling the court he takes "full responsibility for the hand I played in that ritual."
The statement came during a hearing at the Arapahoe County District Courthouse, marking the first time Eslick has publicly addressed the family since the incident that has shaken our East Colfax corridor community. While court documents remain sealed regarding the specific nature of the "ritual" referenced, sources close to the investigation confirm the case stems from events earlier this year near the Aurora Municipal Center.
Martinez’s family attended the proceeding but declined to speak afterward. A victim’s advocate from the Aurora Police Department’s Victim Services Unit was present throughout the morning.
"This doesn't undo the harm, but accountability matters," said Maria Gonzalez, a longtime neighbor of the Martinez family who attended the hearing. "We’re a tight community around here—when something like this happens near home, it rattles everyone."
Eslick’s attorney entered no additional motions Wednesday. The judge set a status conference for next month, with sentencing parameters still under negotiation.
For residents tracking the case, the 18th Judicial District’s public docket (case number 2024CRXXXX) will reflect upcoming dates. The Aurora Police Department has directed further inquiries to the DA’s office, citing the ongoing nature of the proceedings.
This is a developing story. Aurora Patch will update as details become available.
