Murder warrants issued for fugitive Calif. couple in death of 3-year-old girl in their care
By APWednesday, July 21, 2010
Murder warrants issued for fugitive Calif. couple
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Murder warrants have been issued for a California couple accused of killing a 3-year-old girl in their care, then fleeing to Mexico.
Police say warrants for Alberto and Carla Garcia of Bakersfield were issued Tuesday after the coroner’s office determined Serenity Gandara’s death was a homicide.
Authorities are not releasing the cause of death, citing the ongoing investigation. Police have said the girl’s body showed signs of visible trauma when it was discovered Sunday at the Garcias’ home along with her sleeping 4-year-old brother.
Sgt. Mary DeGeare says the boy also showed signs of injuries. He has been placed in protective custody.
DeGeare says the Garcias had been in the process of adopting both children.
Investigators believe they’ve fled with their three biological children to Mexico.
