A 14-year-old girl, allegedly raped and impregnated by her father, gave birth alone near a rural road in Monterey County, California, and her newborn was later found dead, authorities announced.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI provided new details in the case, identifying the infant as “Baby Angelita.” The girl, Diana Galvez Ortega, delivered the baby on August 1 near a farm field in Moss Landing. Investigators believe she feared her mother would discover the pregnancy and harm her.
Authorities allege that Diana’s father, 38-year-old Sergio Galvez Perez, is the biological father of both Diana and her deceased newborn. Perez faces multiple felony charges including incest, unlawful sexual intercourse, and child endangerment. Investigators stated that Diana is considered a victim of her father’s alleged abuse.
According to investigators, after giving birth without medical assistance, Diana placed the newborn on the ground. She then allegedly got into a beige Mercury sedan registered to her parents and drove over the infant, causing fatal injuries. Detectives discovered tire tracks near the baby, who had sustained extensive traumatic injuries.
Following the birth and the infant’s death, Diana sent a text message to her father stating, “Dad! I couldn’t hold it anymore and the baby came out. I hid it … because my mom was going to see me with it, and she was going to kill me.” Investigators said they found no evidence that either parent knew of the teenager's intent to harm the baby.
Earlier that day, deputies had discovered the newborn’s body. Later, they found Diana hiding in a bedroom closet at the family's Salinas home. She was taken to a hospital for medical care. Before she was discharged, Perez arrived and took her from the hospital. The pair then disappeared, prompting an Amber Alert.
DNA testing later confirmed Perez’s paternity. After an extensive search involving the FBI and Mexican law enforcement, Perez and Diana were located in Mexico. Diana was safely recovered, and Perez was taken into custody. Narcotics were allegedly found in his possession.
Investigators have not yet disclosed whether the teenager will face charges related to the newborn's death. The Monterey County District Attorney's Office stated their priority is ensuring the girl receives necessary support services.