The heart-wrenching discovery of a young woman’s lifeless body at the residence of former police officer Elias Huizar has left the community reeling in shock and sorrow. Identified as Angelica Santos, just 17 years old and the mother of an infant son, her untimely demise has cast a pall over her loved ones and the wider community.
In the wake of this devastating loss, Santos’ grieving family has turned to their community for support, initiating a heartfelt GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses. Her aunt, Samantha Deluna, tearfully expressed the family’s plea for help, describing Santos as a vibrant soul taken too soon. With a heavy heart, Deluna shared, “Jelly lost her life at the young age of 17 years old, leaving behind her son Roman, her brother Damien, mother Tiffany, Grandparents Ann and Robert. Along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.” She implored the community to come together in solidarity, urging them to donate, share, and keep the family in their thoughts and prayers during this agonizing time.
Details surrounding Santos’ tragic death have only deepened the anguish of her loved ones. An autopsy revealed that she was fatally stabbed, yet authorities from the West Richland Police Department have acknowledged that the exact cause of her death remains undetermined. During a press conference, Police Chief Thomas Grego revealed the chilling sequence of events, disclosing that Huizar, Santos’ partner, had also murdered his ex-wife before engaging in a deadly standoff with law enforcement.
The ordeal culminated in a harrowing high-speed pursuit on Interstate 5 near Eugene, Oregon, where Huizar’s life came to a tragic end with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Despite the horrors of that day, there remains a glimmer of hope as authorities work tirelessly to reunite Santos’ precious son, Roman, with his grieving family.
As the community grapples with the shock and sorrow of Santos’ senseless death, they are reminded of the fragility of life and the urgent need for support and compassion. In honoring Santos’ memory, may we stand together, offering solace and strength to her loved ones and reaffirming our commitment to fostering a safer, more compassionate community for all.
