A California woman has been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for killing her 4-year-old daughter in Los Angeles County.
Mother Sentenced in Daughter’s Death
Maria Avalos was convicted of murder in the death of her daughter, Mia Gonzalez, whose body was found inside a car in East Los Angeles in January 2024.
She was sentenced this month after being found guilty of second-degree murder and assault on a child causing death.
Prosecutors Say Killing Was Planned
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Avalos deliberately killed the child following problems involving Mia’s father.
Authorities alleged she dressed the girl in nice clothes before the killing and used the child as “a pawn” in a dispute with the father.
Medical Examiner Revealed Cause of Death
According to the medical examiner, Mia died from strangulation combined with a sharp-force injury to her wrist.
Investigators said Avalos was inside the vehicle with Mia when police found the child unresponsive.
Family and Friends Remember Mia
People who knew Mia described her as a sweet and playful child who made others laugh.
Friends said her father was devastated by the loss of his only child.
Jury Deadlocked on Premeditation Finding
While Avalos was convicted of murder, jurors could not agree on whether the crime was planned and premeditated.
