Accident – death – Obituary News :

Man Arrested for Murder After Woman’s Body Found in Burned Vehicle in Lancaster

A man has been taken into custody on murder charges after a woman’s body was discovered in the trunk of a burned vehicle in Lancaster. The suspect, identified as Matthew Switalski, 37, was apprehended by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The victim, Veronica Aguilar, 27, was found at Switalski’s residence, leading authorities to believe that the two had a previous romantic relationship.

The incident occurred on December 20th when emergency crews responded to a fire at a home on 38th Street West. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and flames engulfing the garage. Inside the garage, two vehicles were found charred, and Aguilar’s body was discovered in the trunk of one of the cars. Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

No other individuals were found inside the residence at the time of the incident. The fire caused significant damage to the garage and parts of the house, as depicted in video footage captured at the scene.

Neighborhood Shaken by the Tragic Event

The news of the murder has left residents in the quiet Lancaster neighborhood in shock. One neighbor who wishes to remain anonymous recounted hearing a woman screaming during the early hours of the morning.

“Around 2 a.m., I heard a blood-curdling scream,” the neighbor said. “I had just opened my window after completing some work, and when I went to investigate, the screaming had ceased.”

Neighbors revealed that Switalski was previously employed by Northrop Grumman and had rented out rooms in his house to employees from the company.

Ongoing Investigation

The circumstances leading up to Veronica Aguilar’s death remain unclear as authorities continue their investigation into the case. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist with the investigation. They can be reached at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can also be provided to “Crime Stoppers” at 800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.

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