True Crime SA revisits the shocking 2016 murder of SAPD Detective Marconi and the intense case that led to Otis McKane’s conviction and death penalty.
SAN ANTONIO — Nov. 20, 2016 is day San Antonio will never forget.
SAPD Detective Benjamin Marconi was gunned down in cold blood right outside the Public Safety Headquarters in downtown San Antonio. He was in his patrol car as he conducted a traffic stop.
In a new episode of True Crime SA, streaming now on KENS 5, we are taking a look back at the brazen killing of the beloved detective, the hunt for the killer, the dramatic trial, and the many twists you have to see to believe.
The killing was caught on camera and the search for the suspect took some surprising turns. A rushed marriage ceremony at the Bexar County courthouse helped investigators track down the suspect.
A few days later, Otis McKane was identified as a suspect and arrested. As he was being walked to jail in front of a barrage of media cameras, he said, “I’ve been through several custody battles and I was sick of the situation I was in and I lashed out at someone who didn’t deserve it.” He would later attempt to plead his case in an exclusive jailhouse interview with KENS 5.
As prosecutors began to build their case against McKane, the community poured out their love and admiration for Det. Marconi, who was described as a wonderful father, and a dedicated officer who was committed to helping people and serving the community.
The trial of his killer would take years to happen, with the COVID pandemic causing several delays. The evidence was clear and McKane was found guilty. His reaction to the verdict resulted in a courtroom brawl that made national headlines.
His sentencing spawned more emotional moments as people in his life described a different man than the one police say ambushed and shot Det. Marconi.
Friends and family of Det. Marconi also spoke at the sentencing, describing the impact his death had on their lives. Their words swayed the jury to give McKane the death penalty. As of 2025, McKane is appealing that sentence.
Catch the entire drama unfold in this episode of True Crime SA, streaming now on KENS 5+. You can download it on your tv for free.