A 9-year old girl was found stabbed to death in her home in Calavaras County, California on Saturday, and while police have leads as to who the suspect might be, they don’t have anyone in custody at this time.
Leila Fowler is believed to have been killed by an intruder while her parents were out, although investigators have questioned her brother, who found her severely injured. She died sometime later of her injuries. He is not considered a suspect at this time, however. Tips and descriptions of at least three different people who might have been the intruder have come into the police station, but no details have been released to the public.
“We don’t want to lead anybody in the wrong direction,” Sheriff Captain Jim Macedo said.
Unfortunately, because the family lived in a somewhat rural area, there are few witnesses. Police have set up a tip line and are encouraging anyone with news of anything out of the ordinary on that night to call in. The number is (209) 754-6030.
“Investigators would like any information relating to subjects who may have unexplained injuries or who have left town unexpectedly after the crime was reported,” officials said in a statement.
The suspect, according to a police bulletin, is believed to be a white or Hispanic male, about six feet tall with a muscular build. He was wearing a black long-sleeved shirt and blue pants. He is considered to be armed and dangerous.