LOS ANGELES, CA – The parents of a 1-year-old girl who died earlier this month in Rosemead have been arrested and are facing charges of child abuse and murder, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced Monday.
Leslie Garcia, 20, and Jonathan Salazar, 21, were taken into custody following an investigation into the death of their daughter, who was pronounced deceased on Nov. 15 after sustaining injuries consistent with abuse.
Deputies were called to a residence in the 2600 block of Strathmore Avenue on the evening of Nov. 9 in response to a report of a baby who was not breathing.
The child was rushed to a local hospital, where medical staff informed authorities that the infant had sustained “multiple injuries” believed to be the result of abuse.
The case was initially assigned to the Special Victims Bureau, and Garcia was arrested on Nov. 12.
After the child passed away nearly a week later, the investigation was transferred to the Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau. Detectives uncovered additional evidence implicating Salazar, who was arrested on Nov. 18.
Garcia and Salazar are expected to face charges for child abuse, including abuse causing comatose or paralysis. Salazar is also expected to be charged with murder in connection with the child’s death.
Authorities confirmed that the infant had an older sibling, who has been placed in protective custody.
The investigation remains active, and officials are urging anyone with information to contact the LASD Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 800-222-8477 or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
The case has prompted renewed calls for vigilance in reporting suspected child abuse to protect vulnerable children in the community.
