Authorities are continuing a multi-agency search for a Los Angeles man accused of killing his girlfriend and then taking their 5-year-old daughter across the U.S.-Mexico border. Prosecutors have filed criminal charges as investigators work with federal and international partners to locate both the suspect and the child.
The case began after police conducting a welfare check discovered a woman dead inside a Los Angeles residence. Investigators now believe the suspect left the country shortly afterward with the couple’s young daughter.
Charges
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced on May 28 that Ruben Fregosojuarez, 40, has been charged with one count of murder and one count of misdemeanor child abuse.
Prosecutors allege that Fregosojuarez killed his 36-year-old girlfriend on or around May 25 before leaving with their daughter. The victim’s identity has not been publicly released by authorities.
If apprehended and convicted, Fregosojuarez could face significant penalties under California law. However, the case remains in its early stages, and authorities are currently focused on locating both the suspect and the missing child.
Discovery
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence in the 2600 block of South Alsace Avenue on May 25 to conduct a welfare check.
Police arrived at approximately 12:39 p.m. and discovered an adult female deceased inside the home.
Investigators said preliminary findings indicated that the woman died as a result of violence. While police statements referred to the victim as Fregosojuarez’s wife, the District Attorney’s Office described her as his girlfriend.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances of the death as the homicide investigation remains ongoing.
Alleged Flight
Investigators believe that after the killing, Fregosojuarez left the United States with the couple’s 5-year-old daughter, Daleyza Fregoso.
According to police, the suspect allegedly made statements indicating that he intended to flee the country before his disappearance.
Law enforcement agencies quickly launched efforts to locate both Fregosojuarez and the child, citing concerns for the girl’s safety.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman described the case as a tragedy that has deeply affected the community.
“The killing of a mother and the abduction of a young child is the kind of violence that shocks the entire community,” Hochman said in a statement announcing the charges.
Border Investigation
An Amber Alert initially indicated that Fregosojuarez and his daughter were believed to be traveling in a white 2019 Land Rover Discovery.
However, according to reports cited by NBC 4, the vehicle was later recovered in the parking area of the San Ysidro Port of Entry near the U.S.-Mexico border.
Authorities said neither Fregosojuarez nor the child was found with the vehicle.
Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators reportedly showed a man carrying a suitcase while holding the hand of a young girl shortly before the vehicle was located.
According to reports, the man was wearing a black vest, ripped jeans, and a black hat. The child was reportedly wearing a light blue shirt and sweatpants.
The footage has become an important part of the ongoing investigation as authorities attempt to track the movements of the suspect and child after crossing the border.
Search Efforts
Law enforcement agencies continue to coordinate efforts to locate Fregosojuarez and safely recover Daleyza.
Officials have indicated that federal authorities and Mexican law enforcement agencies are assisting in the investigation.
The District Attorney’s Office said its Family Violence Division will continue working with partner agencies to pursue the case and support efforts to locate the child.
Case Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Ruben Fregosojuarez |
| Age | 40 |
| Charges | Murder, Misdemeanor Child Abuse |
| Victim | 36-year-old woman |
| Child | Daleyza Fregoso, 5 |
| Incident Date | Around May 25 |
| Location | Los Angeles, California |
| Vehicle | White 2019 Land Rover Discovery |
| Vehicle Found | San Ysidro Port of Entry |
| Investigation Status | Active |
Public Appeal
Authorities are asking members of the public to remain alert and report any information that could assist investigators.
Police have advised anyone who sees Fregosojuarez to call 911 immediately. Individuals with information related to the case are also encouraged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery Homicide Division, South Bureau Section detectives.
Investigators have not announced when or where the suspect may have entered Mexico, and no additional information about the child’s current condition has been released.
Ongoing Case
The search for Ruben Fregosojuarez and his daughter remains active as authorities continue pursuing leads on both sides of the border. Prosecutors have formally charged the suspect, but officials emphasize that locating the child safely remains a top priority. As investigators work with federal and Mexican law enforcement partners, authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the effort to resolve the case.
FAQs
Who is Ruben Fregosojuarez?
A Los Angeles man charged with murder and child abuse.
Who is the missing child?
Daleyza Fregoso, the suspect’s 5-year-old daughter.
Where was the vehicle found?
At the San Ysidro Port of Entry near Mexico.
What charges were filed?
Murder and misdemeanor child abuse charges.
Is the search still ongoing?
Yes, authorities continue searching for both.
