Los Angeles, California – A woman in East Los Angeles has been charged with murder and assault in connection with the tragic death of her 4-year-old daughter. Maria Del Refugio Avalos, 38, is facing one count each of murder and assault on a child causing death. The victim, identified as Mia Gonzalez, was found unresponsive in a vehicle and later pronounced dead at a hospital. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner determined that the girl’s death was caused by strangulation and a sharp force injury to the wrist.
The incident unfolded when deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department were called to investigate a report of a child assaulted in East Los Angeles and discovered the unresponsive girl. Subsequently, the girl’s mother was detained at the scene and arrested for suspicion of murder. Avalos has since remained in custody since her arrest.
According to relatives of Avalos and the victim, investigators revealed that Avalos may have been driving around with the deceased child for several days prior to the tragic discovery. They expressed concern that she had been unresponsive and had not reached out for help during that time. Mia’s godmother, Noemi Lopez, mentioned that Avalos had mentioned needing space and was going through a lot, but should have reached out for help instead of isolating herself.
Avalos is scheduled to be arraigned in March, and the case has shocked the local community. The tragic death of Mia Gonzalez has raised questions and concerns about the circumstances leading up to the incident. As the case progresses, more details may emerge about the events that led to this heartbreaking tragedy. The community and authorities are working to understand the situation and support the family during this difficult time.