Mary Zapata, 66, died October 10, 2019, in Delano, California. Authorities determined her death was not from natural causes and reported multiple injuries consistent with foul play, prompting a homicide investigation that shocked the local community.

The Delano Police Department interviewed family, friends, and neighbors and developed several leads. Investigators identified a person seen near Zapata’s home around the time of her death who had a history of violent behavior; that individual was questioned and forensic evidence was collected as officers examined inconsistencies in the person’s alibi. No immediate arrest was reported at the time the investigation was ongoing.

The circumstances of the attack and which evidence most strongly links anyone to the scene remain central to the case. If anyone knew Mary, saw activity near her home around October 10, 2019, or has information that could help, please come forward.