GLENDALE, AZ – On Friday, a 25-year-old man was detained by Glendale police in connection with the killing of his mother, who was found decapitated inside their shared apartment. Alejandro Gonzalez was taken into custody following a welfare check at their residence near 43rd Avenue and Bethany Home Road, where police discovered signs of violence.
According to court records, the victim, 49-year-old Teresa De Jesus Cruz Rubio, was found under a blanket, her body showing multiple stab wounds in addition to being beheaded.
A statement from a family member indicated Cruz Rubio failed to attend a family celebration for her birthday, which was due to take place on Saturday. This raised concerns amongst her relatives, as Alejandro Gonzalez had been living with his mother at the apartment.
Notably, Gonzalez had been released from jail on unrelated charges a mere 24 hours prior to the alleged murder, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed. He had been held on a felony charge of criminal damage, which was returned to Phoenix police by the Maricopa County Attorney’s office for further evidence.
Upon his arrest pertaining to his mother’s death, officers mentioned Gonzalez appeared to have dried blood on his clothes. Gonzalez purportedly told officers that he and an unidentified man, whom he had met in their neighborhood, had used drugs together. Gonzalez suggested this unknown man began the attack, and he too joined in in assaulting Cruz Rubio with a knife.
However, according to Glendale police, there is currently no evidence suggesting another party’s involvement in the incident. The investigation continues, with Gonzalez facing charges of murder and theft.