On Friday in Van Nuys, seven-year-old Rebecca Castellanos was found dead in the bathtub of her home. Her mother, Graciela Castellanos, 37, has been arrested on suspicion of murder. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Rebecca died from asphyxiation due to neck compression and drowning.
According to ABC7, Graciela’s fiancé, who wishes to remain anonymous, described her as a loving mother who struggled with mental health issues. He mentioned that she was never violent but would sometimes scream and isolate herself. He believes her alleged actions were triggered by a deep depression after learning she might not become a legal resident.
The incident occurred around 5:40 p.m. at their apartment on Sepulveda Boulevard. Neighbors reported hearing the child scream, “Mommy, please no,” before police and paramedics arrived. Graciela was arrested and her bail was set at $2 million.
The investigation is ongoing, and the Los Angeles Police Department has not yet disclosed a motive for the alleged crime. The fiancé, who planned to marry Graciela and adopt Rebecca, expressed shock and disbelief over the tragic event.
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