A 40-year-old man from Los Angeles has been charged with murder and child abuse following the tragic death of his partner and the subsequent abduction of their young daughter. Ruben Fregoso, previously referred to as Ruben Fregosojuarez, faces serious allegations that could result in a prison sentence of 25 years to life if he is found guilty.
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The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office alleges that Fregoso murdered his 36-year-old partner around May 25, before fleeing to Mexico with their five-year-old daughter, Daleza. In response to the disappearance, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) issued an AMBER alert for the child, raising concerns for her safety.
According to law enforcement, Daleza was last seen with her father early in the morning on May 24 in the Los Angeles area. Subsequent surveillance footage captured by NBC Los Angeles showed Fregoso and the young girl at a parking facility in San Ysidro, close to the US-Mexico border. In the videos, Fregoso is seen pulling a suitcase while accompanied by Daleza, who was dressed in a light blue shirt and sweatpants.
The CHP confirmed that Fregoso’s vehicle, a 2019 Land Rover Discovery with a California license plate, was discovered in the parking lot of the San Ysidro Port of Entry. Despite locating the car, both the father and daughter remained unaccounted for.
As investigations unfolded, the LAPD indicated that Fregoso had made statements expressing his intentions to flee the country. Tragically, police found the body of his partner during a welfare check at their home on May 25, and preliminary investigations suggested violence was involved in her death.
Calling the incident “shocking” and heartbreaking, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman spoke to the gravity of the situation. He emphasised the fear and grief experienced by Daleza, who was allegedly taken from her mother amidst such violence. Hochman assured that the Family Violence Division would utilise all available resources to ensure justice for both the deceased woman and the young child embroiled in this distressing saga.
Daleza is described as approximately three feet tall, weighing around 45 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. In contrast, her father is reported to weigh 200 pounds, standing at five feet nine inches tall, with brown eyes and black hair. The CHP has provided this description in the AMBER alert, urging the public to be vigilant.
Detectives are actively seeking any information on the whereabouts of Fregoso and Daleza. The CHP is encouraging anyone who may encounter them to immediately call 911. Additionally, the LAPD has requested that anyone with relevant information reach out to their Robbery Homicide Division at (323) 786-5100.
The community’s response to this case underscores the seriousness of domestic violence and the tragic impact it can have on families. Authorities continue to advocate for those who might be experiencing abuse, directing individuals to resources such as the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline and the National Domestic Violence Hotline for support.
As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on the recovery of Daleza and ensuring her safety, alongside bringing Fregoso to justice for the alleged crimes. The unfolding situation has resonated deeply within the community, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and prevention of such tragic events.