SAN FRANCISCO —  San Francisco's chief homicide investigator says a man and his two sons were gunned down in June because of mistaken identity and not road rage as originally suspected.

Edwin Ramos, 21, is accused of gunning down the three at an intersection after police said their car blocked the alleged shooter's vehicle.

Lt. Mike Stasko said Monday that investigators now believe the victims were mistaken for rival gang members.

Ramos has pleaded not guilty to murder in the deaths of 49-year-old Anthony Bologna and his sons, 20-year-old Michael and 16-year-old Matthew. Ramos' attorney says his client is not involved with gangs.

Outrage over the deaths grew when authorities revealed that Ramos is an illegal immigrant who avoided deportation despite previous brushes with the law.