The woman found dead at the home of former police officer Elias Huizar earlier this month has been identified as Angelica Santos, his 17-year-old girlfriend and the mother of their infant son. Santos’ family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover her funeral costs, with her aunt, Samantha Deluna, describing the family’s heartbreak.
In the fundraising appeal, Deluna wrote, “We are asking for help from our loved ones and the community to help lay my beautiful niece to rest.” Santos, known as “Jelly,” lost her life at just 17 years old, leaving behind her young son, Roman, and her family, including her brother, mother, and grandparents. Deluna added, “The family appreciates any and all help from the community and loved ones at this time. If you cannot donate, please continue to share and pray for our family.”
The cause of Santos’ death was initially undetermined by the West Richland Police Department (WRPD) in Washington, but an autopsy obtained by the Tri-City Herald revealed that she was stabbed to death. WRPD Chief Thomas Grego later stated that Huizar killed Santos and his ex-wife, then attempted to flee with the child he and Santos shared.
Huizar died by suicide after a high-speed police pursuit on April 23. According to Chief Grego, Huizar exchanged gunfire with law enforcement while driving southbound on Interstate 5 near Eugene, Oregon. The chase ended when Huizar’s vehicle crashed into the median and he took his own life with a gunshot wound to the head.
“The child [1-year-old Roman Huizar] was removed from the vehicle, and we are working with the appropriate agencies to reunite him with his family,” Chief Grego said.
The tragic events began on April 22 when police responded to a shooting at William Wiley Elementary School in West Richland, Washington. Authorities confirmed that one woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The deceased was Huizar’s ex-wife, identified as Amber Rodriguez, a paraeducator at the school.
After the initial shooting, Huizar fled the scene, prompting an Amber Alert due to concerns he might be heading to Mexico with his child. During the search for Huizar, detectives discovered Santos’ body at his home, making her the second victim in the case.
Authorities have not yet determined a motive for Santos’ murder. Prosecutor Eric Eisinger told CNN that a protection order had previously been filed against Huizar on behalf of the teenager. Huizar also faced separate charges of second-degree rape from February, along with a third-degree rape charge involving Santos.
With Santos’ tragic death and Huizar’s violent end, the community remains shaken by the loss. While the investigation continues, the family hopes to raise awareness and support for other victims of domestic violence.
