A tragic murder-suicide in Lakewood, California, has left a community reeling after a father killed his wife and teenage daughter before taking his own life. The incident occurred on March 14, 2024, at their home on the 5800 block of Lorelei Avenue. In the aftermath, a candlelight vigil was held to honor the victims, and a GoFundMe campaign was established to support the surviving family members.
The victims have been identified as 52-year-old Hector Lionel Alfaro, his 48-year-old wife, and their 17-year-old daughter, Sienna, who was affectionately known as Lily. Described by her soccer teammates as a “ray of sunshine,” Sienna played for Beach Futbol Club. Her teammate, Hazel Ferman, reflected on her vibrant personality at the vigil, stating, “Her smile would light up the room.”
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to reports of an assault with a deadly weapon around 07:55 on the morning of the incident. Upon arrival, they encountered a distraught 19-year-old woman, identified as the couple’s eldest daughter, who had heard gunshots while asleep. She reported that her father had fired shots inside the home and was found unconscious nearby.
Inside the residence, deputies discovered the bodies of three individuals. Hector Alfaro was found in the den with a gunshot wound to his upper torso. His wife was located in a bedroom, also with a gunshot wound, while Sienna was found in another bedroom with a similar injury. The eldest daughter was not harmed during the incident, although she was reportedly targeted by her father before he shot himself.
Authorities recovered two firearms from the scene, highlighting the tragic nature of the events. The community’s response has been swift; as of Saturday afternoon, the GoFundMe campaign had raised over $70,000. The fundraising page stated, “This fundraiser is to support the surviving siblings as they begin the long journey of healing—helping with immediate needs such as funeral services, counseling, and living expenses.”
The statement on the GoFundMe page emphasizes the importance of community support during this difficult time, noting that “any donation, no matter the size, and even sharing this page, is a way to show love, support, and remind them they are not alone.”
For anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or mental health crises, help is available. Individuals can reach out to trained crisis counselors by calling or texting the new three-digit code at 988, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information can be found at 988lifeline.org.
The Lakewood community continues to grieve the loss of Sienna and her parents, coming together to support the surviving family members as they navigate the aftermath of this heartbreaking tragedy.
