In a horrifying instance of child abuse, a 10-year-old girl was tragically strangled and dismembered on her birthday, with her remains then set ablaze.
Victoria Martens was reportedly sexually abused by her mother, as revealed in an autopsy conducted months after authorities responded to a 911 call regarding a domestic altercation. Upon arrival at Michelle’s residence in 2018, officers discovered Victoria’s remains partially wrapped in a burning blanket.
Michelle, aged 35, her boyfriend Fabian Gonzales, 31, and Gonzales’ cousin Jessica Kelley, 31, were apprehended at the scene and charged with various offenses, including first-degree murder, child abuse resulting in severe bodily harm or death, kidnapping, tampering with evidence, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Michelle ultimately admitted to one count of child abuse resulting in death, initially claiming that Victoria was given alcohol and methamphetamine to sedate her for sexual purposes.
Allegations suggest that Michelle Martens watched as Fabian Gonzales assaulted and murdered her daughter, with Gonzales and Kelley accused of dismembering the body. Gonzales denied involvement in the crime. Michelle’s attorney indicated that certain information from the autopsy results could aid in their defense, while Kelley’s attorney declined to comment.
The trials for Gonzales and Kelley were postponed to 2022, whereas Michelle accepted a plea deal in 2018. Gonzales faced reduced charges and was sentenced to 37-and-a-half years in prison, becoming eligible for parole after serving half the term. Michelle received a 12-year prison sentence but was released in October. Kelley pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including reckless child abuse resulting in death, and was sentenced to 44 years in 2022, with a possibility of serving less than half the sentence.