Neighbor Pleads Not Guilty to Killing Former Spring Valley Studio Owner

Family and friends of Jean Eskridge erupted into sobs in an El Cajon courtroom Friday as a prosecutor told the judge that her neighbor, Gary Allen Thomas, bludgeoned the 94-year-old Ramona woman to death as she slept May 1, using a hammer from Eskridge’s kitchen.

A professional dancer in the big band era, Eskridge was the longtime owner of Jean’s Dance Studio in Spring Valley. 

Thomas had spent the night in the guest room of her home as a trusted friend, Deputy District Attorney David Williams III told the arraignment before Judge Charles W. Ervin.

Thomas pleaded not guilty on a charge of first-degree murder. His bail was set at $3.5 million.

“This defendant’s willingness to use a position of trust to attack and kill the victim in this case demonstrates how dangerous he is to the community,” Williams said.

Thomas has no prior criminal record, the court heard.

However, the District Attorney’s Office is seeking help from the public who may have any further information about Thomas. People can contact San Diego Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.

Thomas, 63, faces 26 years to life in prison. The charge comes with an enhancement of using a deadly weapon. A preliminary hearing has been set for May 17.

Thomas was arrested Wednesday afternoon at the Ramona Terrace Estates in the 1200 block of H Street, according to San Diego County sheriff’s Lt. Larry Nesbit. Thomas lives in the mobile home community, the lieutenant said.

Eskridge, who was still active in church and senior center activities, was found in a bedroom of her mobile home about 11:30 a.m. Tuesday by paramedics responding to an activated medical alert bracelet.

Her Spring Valley dance studio is now run by her daughter. The victim also had three sons.

City News Service contributed to this report.