Authorities Search for Man and Teen in Death of Newborn
Authorities on California's Central Coast are searching for a man and a teenage girl as part of an investigation into the death of a newborn found near a highway earlier this month.
The Monterey County Sheriff's Office provided an update on Monday, identifying the infant as "Baby Angelita" or "Baby Angel." The child was found off Struve Road, near Highway 1 north of Moss Landing, on the morning of August 1. Firefighters pronounced the newborn dead at the scene.
According to the Sheriff's Office, detectives determined that a juvenile female gave birth to the baby along the side of the road and placed her on the ground before leaving. A post-mortem examination found signs of traumatic injury.
The 14-year-old girl is now suspected of murder. Authorities also obtained an arrest warrant for her. In addition, they are searching for 38-year-old Sergio Galvez Perez, who is accused of concealing the girl from law enforcement. Perez is wanted on suspicion of incest, lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14, lewd acts with a minor, unlawful sexual intercourse, child concealment, and child endangerment.
Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto described the 14-year-old as "also a victim because of the sexual abuse by her own father," referring to Perez.
"Providing our detectives with effective investigative tools strengthens their ability to solve crimes and protect our communities. This case demonstrates the value of that investment," said Sheriff Nieto. "Most importantly, we cannot lose sight of Baby Angelita, an innocent child whose life was tragically lost. We remain committed to seeking justice on her behalf."
During the investigation, detectives arrested 36-year-old Ofelia Garcia Ortega of Castroville/Salinas on suspicion of child endangerment. Deputies said Ortega had posted bail and was released from custody. Sheriff Nieto revealed that Ortega is the mother of the 14-year-old.
Detectives used license plate readers to find a vehicle of interest and potential suspects. The Sheriff's Office released photos of Perez playing a keyboard or wearing a basketball jersey. Officials said anyone who sees Perez or the 14-year-old should call 911 and "Do not approach or attempt to confront him."
Those with information on the whereabouts of Perez or the 14-year-old should contact Monterey County Sheriff's Det. Sgt. Nicholas Kennedy at (831) 755-3773 or Det. Richard Geng at (831) 759-7279, the Sheriff's Office said.
Nieto also directed a message to Perez: "You need to turn yourself in."