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California Couple Charged with Torturing and Killing 14‑Month‑Old Daughter

Alfredo Muñoz Jr., 40, and his wife, Kelly Anelalani Muñoz, 34, have been charged with murder, torture and assault on a child causing death after their 14‑month‑old daughter, identified as Tilly S., died following traumatic injuries. Prosecutors allege the child suffered multiple fractures over time beginning July 1, 2025; she was admitted to the hospital unresponsive on Nov. 7 and died three days later. The couple was arrested Nov. 25, held on $3 million bail each, and are due for arraignment on Dec. 16.

02:03 AM, 12/04/2025Society
California Couple Charged with Torturing and Killing 14‑Month‑Old Daughter

A California father and his wife have been charged with torturing and killing their 14‑month‑old daughter, authorities announced this week.

Alfredo Muñoz Jr., 40, and his wife, Kelly Anelalani Muñoz, 34, each face one count of murder, one count of torture and one count of assault on a child causing death in connection with the death of the child, identified in court filings as Tilly S. Prosecutors say the alleged abuse began months before her hospital admission.

Allegations and investigation

During a Dec. 1 court hearing, a deputy district attorney told the judge investigators believe the child suffered repeated injuries over time, alleging the couple "broke multiple bones over numerous incidents" beginning July 1, 2025. Detectives reviewed medical records and other evidence and concluded the victim's death was the result of ongoing abuse by her father and stepmother.

Long Beach police say hospital staff alerted officers on Nov. 7 after the child was admitted to Miller Children’s Hospital unresponsive and showing signs of trauma. She was placed on life support and died three days later from her injuries.

Arrest and court proceedings

The couple was arrested on Nov. 25 and booked into the Long Beach City Jail. Each was held on $3 million bail. An arraignment for both defendants is scheduled for Dec. 16 in Long Beach, where prosecutors will formally present the charges and set further proceedings.

"The tragic death of this little girl is a heartbreaking reminder of the sacred responsibility we all share to protect our children from harm," said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman, adding that the office is committed to seeking justice for the victim.

Background

Court records indicate Alfredo Muñoz previously entered a no‑contest plea to one count of willful cruelty to a child causing possible injury or death and was sentenced to four years in prison in 2021. That prior case is noted in current filings and may be relevant to the upcoming proceedings.

The investigation remains active. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact the Long Beach Police Department.

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