Photo: Kareem Leiva
LANCASTER – The LASD recently announced an arrest in the death of Anthony Avalos. Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a medical rescue call in the 1100 block of East Avenue K on June 20th at about 12:00 PM. They found the 10-year-old boy not breathing.
In the first place, family members reported that the boy fell. Later reports revealed cigarette burns to his body and bruises on his head.
McDonnell announced yesterday, “Investigators… immediately responded and began their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.” In addition, The Coroner investigated the cause of death.
Anthony Avalos (10) of Lancaster succumbed in the hospital early the next morning to his mortal injuries. On June 27th, investigators interviewed his mother’s boyfriend, Kareem Leiva (32) at Lancaster Station. His history includes MS-13 gang ties and a 2010 domestic abuse.
Investigators revealed that the young boy had recently said “he likes boys.” Hence, homophobia is under investigation as a possible motive for the murder.
Subsequently, investigators conducted multiple interviews with all persons associated with the case. They examined all Sheriff’s and DCFS documents, both historical and current.
In his interview Leiva made statements that led to his arrest for the murder of Anthony Avalos.
Reportedly, investigators realized that Leiva suffered prior medical injuries that required medical attention. The DA set Leiva’s bail at $2 million.
Homicide Bureau and Special Victims Bureau are working closely with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office Complex Child Abuse Unit and the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
McDonnell added, “Detectives worked with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to remove eight children, ranging from 11 months to 12 years old, who either lived at the home, or were associated with the victim’s family. They were placed in the custody of DCFS.”
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