Surveillance footage obtained by a local news outlet appears to show 40-year-old Ruben Fregoso and his 5-year-old daughter, Daleza, at a parking garage in San Ysidro, near the Mexico border, on Sunday. Fregoso is a person of interest in the death of Daleza’s mother, Marysol Garcia, who was found dead inside their West Adams home on Monday after a welfare check. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) issued an Amber Alert for Daleza, stating she was last seen with Fregoso in a 2019 Land Rover Discovery early Sunday morning. The vehicle was later found near the border, but neither Fregoso nor Daleza have been located.
A candlelight vigil was held Wednesday evening for Garcia, with neighbors and family members expressing grief and hope for Daleza’s safe return. Neighbors described the child as a beloved figure in the community, while Garcia’s 14-year-old daughter remains distraught over her missing sister. Authorities believe Fregoso may have taken Daleza to Mexico, where he has family ties.
Background on the Investigation
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) responded to a welfare check at the family’s home on Monday, where they discovered Garcia’s body. The cause of death was ruled as a result of violence. Fregoso, who was not present at the time, was later identified as a person of interest. The CHP’s Amber Alert described him as the alleged abductor, though no formal charges have been filed.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
Neighbors expressed shock and sorrow over the tragedy, with some sharing concerns about the child’s well-being. One neighbor stated, “I’m hoping the baby didn’t see anything that could scar her for life.” Authorities continue to search for Fregoso and Daleza, with no confirmed sightings since the border surveillance footage.
The case remains under active investigation, with law enforcement agencies coordinating efforts across jurisdictions.