A California man has admitted to a horrific revenge-fueled rampage that left four people and three dogs dead, culminating in the arson of a Lancaster home, prosecutors announced. Miguel Diego Sandoval, 21, entered a guilty plea to the November 2024 massacre that prosecutors say was ignited by a breakup.
A Calculated Act of Violence
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office detailed the chilling events, stating that Sandoval targeted the family of his ex-boyfriend. According to the prosecution, Sandoval waited until the residents of the North Tabler Avenue home had retired for the night on November 16, 2024, before forcing his way inside. Once inside, he unleashed gunfire, killing Janvi Maquindang, 21; Christine Aca-ac, 25; Edwin Garcia, 24; and Matthew Montebello, 21. Following the killings, Sandoval set the house ablaze before fleeing the scene.
District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman characterized the crime as a “calculated act of violence” stemming from Sandoval being “jilted” after his relationship ended. “This was a calculated act of violence that left a void for the victims’ families that can never be filled,” Hochman stated. “Rest assured this guilty plea will result in a lifetime prison sentence.”
A Survivor’s Escape and Animal Cruelty Charges
Amidst the carnage, a 16-year-old victim managed to survive the ordeal by barricading themselves in a locked bedroom and calling 911. Responding Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies located and rescued the teenager from the burning structure. In addition to the human victims, three family dogs were also killed during the attack, leading to three felony animal cruelty charges against Sandoval.
Lives Cut Short: Tributes to the Victims
Fundraising pages established by the victims’ families in the wake of the tragedy offered poignant glimpses into the lives lost. Christine Aca-ac and Edwin Garcia were engaged and had been planning their future together. A GoFundMe organized by Christine’s sister remembered her as a vibrant, caring individual who also served as the legal guardian for her younger siblings. These younger siblings, though physically unharmed, lost their sister, brother, and their home in the fire. The fundraiser aimed to help them find a new home, continue their education, and begin rebuilding their lives.
Janvi Maquindang, Christine’s brother, was described as a bright and successful young man, having graduated as his high school’s valedictorian. He was a role model for his younger siblings. Matthew Montebello, who had celebrated his 21st birthday just days before the shooting, was remembered by his brother Andrew as talented, smart, and exceptionally curious. Matthew was critically injured in the attack and placed in a coma, but tragically did not survive.
Edwin Garcia, known to his family as Fernando or Fer, was characterized by his mother, Yemi Olivares, as a gentle soul with aspirations of becoming an educator in academics and music. His mother expressed profound devastation, sharing his dreams of marrying, having children, and teaching future generations.
Legal Ramifications and Sentencing
Sandoval’s guilty plea encompasses four counts of first-degree murder, with special circumstances including multiple murders and murder committed by means of lying in wait. He also pleaded guilty to attempted murder, first-degree residential burglary, and arson of an inhabited structure or property. Furthermore, he admitted to two counts of child abuse, specifically under circumstances likely to cause great bodily injury or death, relating to the endangerment of the younger siblings.
The plea agreement ensures Sandoval will spend the remainder of his life in prison without the possibility of parole. His sentencing is scheduled for November 17.
