On November 16, 2024, a horrific incident unfolded in Lancaster, California, when four individuals tragically lost their lives in an act of violence that shocked their families, friends, and the entire community. The victims, Matthew Montebello, Janvi Maquindang, Christine Aca-ac, and Edwin Garcia, were killed in what authorities are describing as a senseless shooting, followed by an attempt to cover up the crime by setting their house on fire. The crime, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, has left a lasting impact on those who knew the victims, who were all vibrant young people with bright futures ahead of them.
The lives of Matthew, Janvi, Christine, and Edwin were tragically cut short by a 19-year-old suspect, Miguel Sandoval, who allegedly entered their home while they were asleep and opened fire on the victims. In the aftermath of the shooting, Sandoval is accused of setting the house ablaze in an effort to destroy evidence. While the flames consumed the house, one person survived the ordeal – a 16-year-old girl, the younger sister of two of the victims, who managed to escape the violence by hiding in a closet. The young girl’s bravery allowed her to alert authorities, leading to the investigation that has since unfolded.
Matthew Montebello, a 21-year-old aspiring medical student and a talented musician, was one of the victims of the shooting. He had recently celebrated his 21st birthday, a milestone that was overshadowed by the tragedy. Matthew’s family is heartbroken by his loss but takes some comfort in knowing that his organs, including his kidneys, were donated to a friend in need, saving that person’s life. The family is proud that Matthew’s legacy will live on through the lives he saved.
Janvi Maquindang, also 21, was another victim of this senseless crime. Janvi was a dedicated student with a bright future ahead of her. Her family mourns the loss of a compassionate young woman who had a deep love for learning and an unwavering commitment to her family. Janvi was the sister of Christine Aca-ac, one of the other victims of the tragedy, and her loss is felt not only by her immediate family but by the many people who knew her.
Christine Aca-ac, 26, was engaged to Edwin Garcia, 24, and together they had plans for a bright future. Christine was known for her warmth and the love she shared with those around her. She had a radiant spirit and was cherished by all who knew her. Her family, including her fiancé, is devastated by her loss, and the community mourns the senseless violence that took her life. Edwin, too, was a beloved figure who will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the love he shared with Christine. Edwin’s death, coming just as he was about to embark on a life with the woman he loved, has left his family and friends grieving deeply.
The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on November 16, when deputies responded to reports of a shooting at a home on Tabler Avenue in Lancaster. Upon arrival, they found the residence engulfed in flames, and firefighters were able to control the blaze before it spread further. Inside the home, deputies discovered five victims – three of whom had been shot and were declared dead at the scene, while the other two, including the 16-year-old girl, were severely traumatized by the events but survived physically.
The 16-year-old girl’s bravery in hiding in the closet allowed her to escape the worst of the violence, and she was able to alert authorities to the horror that had unfolded in her home. Her survival has been a beacon of hope amid the devastation, as she is now receiving support from her family, friends, and the community to help her heal from the trauma she endured.
Authorities quickly launched an investigation into the incident, and on November 17, Miguel Sandoval was arrested in connection with the murders. Sandoval, a former boyfriend of one of the victims, allegedly entered the home while everyone was asleep and opened fire, killing the four individuals. After the shooting, he reportedly set the house on fire in an attempt to destroy evidence, but his actions were ultimately unsuccessful, as the young girl’s survival and the investigation led to his identification as a suspect.
Miguel Sandoval has been charged with multiple counts of murder, burglary, and arson. He is currently being held without bail and is scheduled to appear in court for his arraignment. Authorities are continuing to investigate the case and are working to gather additional evidence to determine the exact motive behind the shooting. While it is clear that Sandoval’s actions were devastating, the question of why he chose to commit such a horrific act remains unclear. The investigation is ongoing, and police are reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and other evidence to piece together the details of the crime.
In the wake of the tragedy, the community of Lancaster and the families of the victims have come together to mourn the loss of their loved ones. Local organizations have set up GoFundMe campaigns to assist with funeral expenses for the victims, and community leaders have called for justice for the victims and their families. The loss of Matthew, Janvi, Christine, and Edwin has sent shockwaves through the Lancaster community, and many have come forward to express their condolences and support for the grieving families.
The city has also begun holding memorial services to honor the victims, and friends, family, and community members have been paying their respects and sharing fond memories of the individuals who were taken so tragically. These memorial services have been an opportunity for people to come together and offer support to the families of the victims as they navigate through this incredibly difficult time.
This tragedy has also sparked conversations about the dangers of domestic violence, gun violence, and the need for stronger measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Local leaders and advocates are calling for more resources to be dedicated to preventing violence in homes and communities and for better systems to be put in place to protect victims of abuse.
The loss of four young lives in such a senseless act of violence is a stark reminder of the need for greater attention to issues of domestic violence and the importance of supporting individuals in need of help. As the investigation continues and the families mourn their loss, the community of Lancaster stands together in remembering the lives of Matthew, Janvi, Christine, and Edwin. Their memories will live on in the hearts of those who knew them, and their tragic deaths will not be forgotten as the pursuit of justice moves forward.
