A suspect has been taken into custody in connection to the tragic murder of a 17-year-old high school cheerleader who was found stabbed to death in California just days before Christmas.
The family of Angelina Camillia Gonzales alleges that her ex-boyfriend is responsible for the heinous crime.
According to reports from local station KABC, Gonzales’ family stated that her ex-boyfriend picked her up from a cheerleading banquet and took her back to his residence on Dec. 20.
At around 10 p.m. that same night, Azusa Police Department officers discovered Gonzales with stab wounds.
She was immediately transported to a nearby hospital where she was sadly pronounced dead by authorities.
Family members claim that they were able to track Gonzales’ cell phone to her ex-boyfriend’s house, as reported by KABC.
“When I got there, there was already crime scene tape up and forensics and all kinds of stuff. And I ran up to the officers like, ‘Hey, my daughter’s in there. You know, my daughter is in there. I’m trying to find her. She’s not home.’ And that’s when they told me, sit aside for a minute,” shared Robert Caraballo, Angelina’s stepfather, with KABC.
Caraballo revealed that he had warned his step-daughter to stay away from her ex-boyfriend on multiple occasions, but acknowledged her compassionate nature by stating, “she had a really big heart and always saw the good in him.”
According to a GoFundMe page set up by Gonzales’ mother, Letica Carabello, the young cheerleader was on the brink of turning 18 on Jan. 7.
“She had such a great future ahead of her. She had a heart of gold. She was my perfect gorgeous Angel baby,” expressed Letica Carabello.
“I don’t even have the words to say. I can’t even cope. I need her. Our family is devastated. We appreciate all the support and love. Thank you all.”
Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the suspect, only confirming that it is an 18-year-old acquaintance of the victim and a resident of Azusa.
The suspect’s arraignment is slated for Tuesday, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office to Fox News Digital.
Officials have mentioned that the district attorney is currently reviewing the case, with filing decisions expected to be made on Tuesday morning.
Individuals with any information regarding this incident are urged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Azusa Police Department for comment but has not yet received a response.
