EXCLUSIVE: Murder of beloved 60-year-old Daly City man started with argument at gym, prosecutor says; Mother and son appear in court

DALY CITY, Calif. (KGO) — A Daly City mother and son appeared in court for the first time Wednesday in a murder case that the San Mateo County district attorney said originated in an argument at a local gym.

Rolando Yanga, 60, was killed outside his home at around 7pm on Sunday

One friend, overcome with emotion, described Yanga as “like an older brother or uncle, always thinking about other people and sharing things with them.”

With tears in his eyes, he said: “He is very valued and respected. He enjoyed sharing his gifts and talents with humanity and mankind.”

This kind and generous spirit makes it particularly difficult to understand why this senseless crime happened, especially in a neighborhood that residents say is generally quiet, safe and full of helpful, friendly families. “It’s a really nice neighborhood,” said a man who lived near Yanga.

The same neighbor captured the incident on his surveillance camera shortly after 7 p.m. You can see the vehicle Yanga was driving.

Seconds later another car follows him. Then several shots, at least eight, are heard.

Daly City Police arrested 50-year-old Zaib Afridi and her 21-year-old son Maarji Afridi outside their apartment complex about two miles away.

The prosecutor's complaint shows that Maarji Afridi was charged with murder and multiple counts of assault. His mother as an accessory to a crime.

The mother and son made their first appearance at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City on Wednesday afternoon.

The San Mateo County District Attorney told ABC7 News anchor Dion Lim that the incident began at a nearby gym.

A friend of Yanga's, who wished to remain anonymous, said Yanga worked part-time in maintenance there and that Maarji Afridi was a member known to cause trouble.

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When Yanga approached the young man about alleged vandalism in the bathroom, things escalated.

In court, Zaib Afridi's private defense lawyer requested an Urdu translator.

The couple will return to court next Wednesday.