HANFORD, CA – A South Valley community is breathing a sigh of relief following the safe return of two young girls, days after their mother’s tragic death. Their father, Jonathan Maldonado Cruz, 23, is now in custody after surrendering at the Mexican border. He stands accused of the murder of his former partner, 22-year-old Meline Rose Quas, who was tragically killed just shy of her 23rd birthday on Valentine’s Day.
The unfolding drama began when authorities allege Maldonado Cruz abducted his daughters after fatally shooting Quas at their home in the Home Garden neighborhood near Hanford. The incident, which occurred early Tuesday morning, left the community reeling and ignited a desperate search for the missing children.
Joel Quas, the children’s grandfather, endured an agonizing wait before learning of their safe return. “Thank you, Lord,” he expressed, his voice a mix of relief and sorrow. The days of uncertainty had taken a toll, but the news that his granddaughters were unharmed brought a measure of solace amid the grief.
The breakthrough came when Maldonado Cruz turned himself in at the border. Authorities had been tracking his movements using his cell phone, which indicated he had fled to Mexico shortly after the incident. Significant credit has been given to the suspect’s mother, who played a pivotal role in persuading him to surrender.
Upon their return to California, the young girls, clutching backpacks, were met with cheers and relief from law enforcement and family members. Despite the trauma they endured, their spirits appeared high, with one witness noting their excitement as they disembarked from the airplane.
At a press conference, the Kings County Sheriff’s Office detailed the timeline of events. They revealed that the young mother’s body was discovered hours after the crime, affording Maldonado Cruz a substantial head start. The FBI’s involvement was crucial in tracking his escape route.
While the immediate crisis has passed, the Quas family continues to grapple with the aftermath. “I can’t bring my daughter back,” Joel Quas reflected, “but knowing my granddaughters are safe is a blessing.” The family is now focused on planning Meline’s funeral and securing the future of her daughters.
In light of this tragedy, authorities remind those affected by domestic violence that support is always available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 800-799-7233, offering resources and assistance for those in need.
Maldonado Cruz faces charges of murder and kidnapping and is currently held in Kings County Jail. The Quas family has established a GoFundMe to aid in the care of the children and cover funeral expenses. More information can be found on their dedicated page.