Serena Marie Dengler was five years old when she died at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital in Tacoma on September 3, 2004, after what was reported as an accidental fall. Born April 13, 1999, in Tacoma, she was the daughter of John Edward Dengler and Tina Marie Peichoto.

Family remembered Serena as a child who loved the outdoors, enjoyed playing in her aunt’s sandbox, adored her cat Mr. Whiskers, and dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. A memorial service was held to honor her memory. There is no indication that any arrests or suspects were identified in connection with her death.