Sandra Rodriguez Polanco, 54, was found dead on September 12, 2017, in her apartment in the 11700 block of Floral Drive in Whittier, California. A family member discovered her with a gunshot wound to the head and called authorities, prompting an investigation by the Whittier Police Department.

Her longterm boyfriend, Rafael Ayala Castillo, who had lived with her in the same apartment, was the primary suspect. Castillo was not at the scene when officers arrived but was located and detained later that day in Reseda. Court testimony described ongoing relationship problems between the couple and stated Castillo intentionally discharged a firearm, causing Polanco’s death.

Castillo was charged and tried for first-degree murder; a special allegation that a firearm was used was upheld. On November 13, 2018, he was found guilty, and in January 2019 he was sentenced to 50 years to life in state prison. If anyone knew Sandra or has information about her life or the events leading up to September 12, 2017, please share what you know.