Twelve-year-old Mercedes Cabrera-Layne of Los Iros, Erin was reported missing on Saturday at approximately 4 p.m. after failing to arrive home from her grandfather's residence at Lorensotte North Trace, Rancho Quemado. She had been placed in a vehicle around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday to travel home along Los Iros Beach Road, Erin, but never reached her destination. At approximately 1 a.m. on Sunday, police located the vehicle abandoned along Beach Road, Palo Seco after reviewing CCTV footage and acting on information received. Officers led by Sgt Jaglal worked throughout the night following several leads. At approximately 6:43 a.m. on Sunday, an employee of an oil company discovered the body of a young female lying face down along an access road on Carapal Road, Erin. Responding officers confirmed the body was that of the missing child. A 26-year-old man from Palo Seco was detained in connection with the case and remained in police custody as of Sunday evening. Senior officers, homicide investigators and crime scene personnel conducted extensive forensic and investigative enquiries; police have not yet disclosed the circumstances surrounding the child's death.
In Context
This is the 2nd murder reported in Palo Seco in 2026.
Found incorrect information?
Help us keep our data accurate by reporting issues.
Report Issue
Safe Haven Status — Palo Seco
Celebrate the Achievement: Your area's safety record is maintained by the collective habits of residents. Recognize that every locked door and reported concern contributes to this outcome.
Pedestrian-Friendly Rating: Low reports of street-level incidents make this one of the most pedestrian-friendly hotspots in our database for evening commutes and outdoor activity.