WEST RICHLAND, Wash. – An AMBER Alert issued out of West Richland ended in relief as a 1-year-old boy was found safe after his father, Elias Huizar, allegedly killed his ex-wife and girlfriend in separate incidents. The child, Roman Santos, was located near Eugene, Oregon, after troopers pursued the vehicle Huizar was driving. The suspect reportedly shot himself in the head, with unknown current conditions.
Law enforcement confirmed Huizar’s ex-wife and girlfriend’s deaths, with the incident leading to a lockdown at Wiley Elementary School in West Richland. Authorities discovered another body at the suspect’s residence during a search, identifying the deceased as the ex-wife and girlfriend of Huizar. Huizar, a former police officer with the Yakima Police Department, previously faced child rape charges and a recent custody battle with his ex-wife before the tragic events unfolded.
Reports from Tri-City Herald revealed that Huizar had pleaded not guilty to child rape charges earlier this year. Concerns grew as the AMBER Alert extended to Oregon, with suspicions that Huizar might be headed to Mexico with Roman. Classes at Wiley Elementary were canceled following the incidents, with police urging the public to report any sightings of Huizar and Roman to 911.
The West Richland Police Department provided updates on the situation, with details emerging about Huizar’s possible movements into Oregon. With Huizar considered armed and dangerous, the community remains on high alert, with authorities continuing the investigation to ensure the safety of the public. More information is expected to be revealed as the case develops.