A tragic incident unfolded in Westminster on Friday, as a 9-year-old girl was found dead in her home under suspicious circumstances. The girl’s mother, 32-year-old Khadiyjah Pendergraph, has been taken into custody by the Westminster police on suspicion of murder.

Disturbing Discovery

Authorities were alerted to the situation after receiving a concerned tip from a family member, prompting them to conduct a welfare check at the residence located in the 14100 block of Goldenwest Street. Upon their arrival shortly after noon, officers were forced to enter the premises, where they discovered the lifeless body of the young girl. Tragically, she exhibited visible signs of trauma.

Mother Identified as Person of Interest

Following their initial investigation, Westminster police detectives, in collaboration with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, identified the child’s mother, Khadiyjah Pendergraph, as a person of interest in the case. Working diligently, they were able to locate and apprehend her at a shopping center in Aliso Viejo. Pendergraph was subsequently placed under arrest by the authorities.

Murder Suspicions and Isolated Incident

Khadiyjah Pendergraph has since been booked into the county jail on suspicion of murder, as stated by the Westminster police. The investigation is ongoing; however, there are currently no other suspects involved, leading authorities to believe that this is an isolated incident.

A Tragic Loss

Expressing their deep sorrow, Police Chief Darin Lenyi conveyed his distress over the heart-wrenching loss of an innocent child allegedly at the hands of her own mother. He remarked, “While police officers encounter various tragedies on a daily basis, this particular murder is exceptionally disturbing.”

Seeking Information

Authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding this devastating incident to come forward. Detectives assigned to the case can be reached at (714) 548-3773. Alternatively, individuals can provide anonymous tips to Orange County Crime Stoppers by calling (855) 847-6287 or submitting information through their website at www.occrimestoppers.org.