Police are on the hunt for a man who broke into a California home and stabbed an 8-year-old girl to death.
Leila Fowler was at home with her 12-year-old brother while her parents were at a nearby event, when someone broke into the home and stabbed her. Her body was found by her brother, who was unharmed.
Fowler was rushed to the hospital, where she later died of her injuries.
“We are devastated. She didn’t deserve this. She was so full of life,” said Crystal Walters, Fowler’s mother.
The Northern California neighborhood is scared and worried that their lives are also in danger, as Fowler’s murderer remains on the run. Residents are urged by police to keep all doors and windows locked at all times and added security has been placed at the schools.
Police are searching for a man described as white or Hispanic with a muscular build wearing a black long-sleeved shirt and blue pants and standing 6 feet tall.
Ryan Wydner lives across the street from Fowlers and said, “Anything’s really possible at this point. What’s the difference between that guy going left and right and coming to my house? I don’t know.”
Detectives were able to get fingerprints from the scene of the crime and are hoping to identify the intruder.
Superintendent Mark Campbell released a statement saying, “Our hearts and thoughts are with the Fowler family and we are ready to provide whatever support we can to the parents and siblings now and in the future.”
Although Fowler’s brother has not been labeled a suspect in this case, police are still questioning him because he was the only one there at the time. Over 100 law enforcement members are working the case and are filtering leads provided to them by the community.
Our condolences to Leila Fowler’s family and friends. We hope that her killer is found and brought to justice.
SOURCE: CNN
