A tragic incident unfolded in Lancaster, California, on November 16, when four individuals were killed in their home. Victims include 21-year-old Matthew Montebello, his partner Janvi Maquindang, 21, Maquindang’s sister Christine Aca-ac, 26, and Aca-ac’s fiancé, Edwin Garcia, 24.
Miguel Sandoval, a 19-year-old, was arrested on November 21 in connection with the murders. He appeared in a Los Angeles court on November 26, facing multiple charges, including four counts of murder, one count of first-degree residential burglary, and one count of arson.
According to reports, Sandoval allegedly entered the home around 1:30 a.m., when the victims were asleep, and shot them before setting the house on fire to conceal his actions. A 16-year-old sister of Aca-ac and Maquindang survived by hiding in a closet and calling 911. She told deputies she heard gunshots just after 1:27 a.m.
When authorities arrived at the scene, it was confirmed that Aca-ac, Maquindang, and Garcia had died, while Montebello was rescued but later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames by approximately 2:30 a.m.
In addition to the four victims, three dogs were also reported killed in the incident. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and local law enforcement continues to investigate.
Maria, Montebello’s mother, expressed her sorrow, describing her son as a kind and loving person. A GoFundMe page has been established by the siblings of Aca-ac and Maquindang to help cover funeral costs, reflecting the deep loss felt by the family.
Sandoval is currently held without bail and is set to be arraigned on January 27, facing the possibility of a life sentence without parole.
