The Pasadena community is reeling from the tragic death of an 11-year-old girl who was found strangled to death in her home on Saturday. The Pasadena Police Department responded to a distress call reporting that the young girl was not breathing. Authorities pronounced the young girl dead at the scene. The victim has been identified as Maria Gonzalez, and authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding her untimely death.
Maria’s father, Carmelo Gonzalez, reportedly discovered her lifeless body under a bed upon returning home from work. He had been in contact with Maria throughout the day. However, after leaving for work at 10 a.m., he received a message from her stating that someone was knocking at the front door. Concerned, Carmelo called family members who lived in the same apartment complex to check on Maria. Unfortunately, they were unable to locate her.
The medical examiner’s report revealed that Maria’s cause of death was strangulation and blunt force head and neck trauma. Shockingly, the investigation also uncovered evidence of sexual assault. Police have determined that there was no forced entry into the home and currently have no suspects in custody. Pasadena Police Chief Josh Bruegger emphasized that, at this point, Carmelo Gonzalez is not considered a suspect in the investigation. He further explained that the father and daughter had been residing in the apartment for three months, while Maria’s mother currently lives in Guatemala.
In an effort to gather more information, authorities have taken DNA samples from individuals residing in the apartment complex. However, obtaining cooperation from potential witnesses has proven challenging. Chief Bruegger urged anyone who may have seen something suspicious around 10 a.m. on Saturday to come forward with any information that could aid the investigation.