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According to the child’s stepfather, the woman accused of killing her 7-year-old daughter after the girl was found dead in the tub in Van Nuis’ apartment, struggled with her mental health.
Police say Rebecca Castellanos died Friday. The Los Angeles medical inspector’s office said the girl died of choking due to neck pressure and drowsiness. Her mother, 37-year-old Graciela Castellanos, was arrested on suspicion of owning her.
The female partner, the girl’s stepfather, spoke to NBC4’s sister station Teremundo 52, and said she believes her mother’s struggle with mental well-being has driven her to kill her.
“With passive bipolar disorder and the recession of being a potential legal resident, this drove her to do what she did,” his stepfather said. He wanted to remain anonymous. “I’m sure she was outside her mind when she attacked the girl.”
He added that Graciela tried to take her own life the night her daughter passed away.
“She was the most loving person in the world,” the man said. “She never screamed, never said bad words, and hit her too much.”
A small monument remains outside the apartment where the family lives. Stuffed animals, candles and posters are arranged to commemorate Rebecca.
The family neighbors remained stunned by the tragedy. They described their family as humble and said they were shocked at what had happened.
“My idea is that she was a mother who probably had no support at all,” said neighbor Anna Diaz.
“It’s like a state of shock, something in my stomach and in my heart,” said another neighbor, Norma Amador. “I’m a mother so it feels like I’m feeling.”
The investigation is underway. Graciera is being held behind the bar on $2 million bail.
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