Police Release Identities of Mother and Daughter Found Murdered at Tradinghouse Creek Reservoir Near Waco
Police have released the identify of a woman and 1-year-old girl believed to be victims of a double homicide.
The remains of 23-year-old Valarie Martinez and her daughter, Azariah, were discovered near Tradinghouse Creek Reservoir around Noon Sunday.
John Carroll with our news partner, KWTX, reports that Azariah was found inside her mother's car still buckled into her car seat. Martinez's body was found about 20 feet from the vehicle.
Police have not released details about the scene, but McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara told KXXV, “It was one of the most sadistic, brutal homicides I’ve ever seen.”
Jessica Krupicka, a lifelong friend of Valarie Martinez, expressed her shock Monday.
“I just can’t believe this," she told KWTX. "Valarie was such a happy person and could make anyone in a room smile and feel good, and Azariah was always smiling. How could someone do that, especially to that precious little baby?”
So far, police have not named any suspects or commented on a likely motive.
According to KWTX's report, a candlelight vigil is planned for 6 PM Sunday, November 12 at the the reservoir.