Balch Springs police have provided more details about the investigation into the death of a 19-year-old autistic girl, Delilah Villegas, whose body was found on Valentine’s Day. The girl’s mother, Crystal Canales, has been arrested in connection with her death. Delilah was found dead, malnourished, and with severe injuries in her home by first responders, who estimated she had been dead for between six and 24 hours.
Family members revealed that Delilah had severe autism, was non-verbal, and wore a diaper, but had no major health conditions. Canales claimed her daughter had been breathing and eating before her death and attributed her injuries to her daughter’s violent behavior, which family members disputed. Canales was arrested for serious bodily injury to a disabled person under her care.
Police are still investigating if others should face charges, as Delilah’s grandmother and great uncle also lived in the home. Delilah’s aunt, Yajaira Pardo, expressed grief and regret, urging for more awareness and action to prevent similar tragedies. Balch Springs Police emphasized the importance of reporting suspicions of abuse or neglect to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the community mourns the loss of Delilah, they remember her life and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals. The case highlights the importance of recognizing and acting on signs of abuse or neglect to prevent avoidable tragedies.
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