A 19-year-old man from Lancaster, California, has been charged with multiple counts of murder following the deaths of four individuals in a home invasion and subsequent arson.
The suspect, Miguel Diego Sandoval, was arrested on November 21, 2024, in connection with the November 16 incident that claimed the lives of siblings Christine Aca-ac, 26, and Janvi Maquindang, 21; Aca-ac’s fiancé, Edwin Garcia, 24; and family friend, Matthew Montebello, 21.
According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Sandoval allegedly entered the victims’ residence in the early hours of the morning, waited for them to fall asleep, and then fatally shot them. He is also accused of setting the house on fire in an attempt to conceal the crime. A 16-year-old girl, the younger sister of Aca-ac and Maquindang, survived by hiding in a closet and contacting authorities.
District Attorney George Gascón expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of these four lives, including a brother and sister, who were callously shot as they peacefully slept in their beds.”
The charges against Sandoval include four counts of murder, with special circumstance allegations of murder while lying in wait and multiple murders. He also faces charges of first-degree residential burglary and arson of an inhabited structure. If convicted, Sandoval could face a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Aca-ac and Maquindang’s siblings, Jasmine, Kyle, and Kyleen, have started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs of their siblings’ funerals. The fundraising effort has raised nearly $30,000. The page describes the profound grief their family is experiencing and highlights the positive impact Christine and Janvi had on those around them.
Christine is remembered as a loving sister and a vibrant, caring friend who brought joy to everyone with her laughter, generosity, and ability to make others feel welcome. Her warmth and knack for uplifting others made her a source of light in any room.
Janvi is celebrated as a bright, successful young man with a promising future. Known for his exceptional listening skills, kindness, intelligence, and sense of humor, he left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate to know him.
Sandoval is currently held without bail, with an arraignment scheduled for January 27, 2025. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not disclosed a possible motive for the crime. However, reports indicate that the suspect was previously in a relationship with one of the younger siblings residing in the home.