Everett, Washington – A tragic incident unfolded in Everett, Washington, as a 4-year-old boy, Ariel Garcia was reported missing, only to be found dead along an interstate highway. The mother, Janet Garcia, now faces serious charges related to the death of her son. The Everett Police Department shared the grim details of Ariel’s death, announcing that Janet is charged with murder in the first and second degrees, as well as assault of a child in the first degree.
According to reports, a relative alerted authorities when Ariel went missing on Wednesday, leading the EPD to identify Janet as a person of interest in the case. Subsequently, Janet was taken into custody by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office for allegedly providing false and misleading information to the police. On Friday, she was booked into Snohomish County Jail in connection with her son’s death.
As the investigation unfolded, police received information about a body discovered along Interstate 5 in Pierce County, confirmed to be that of Ariel. The discovery came after a massive search effort involving over 100 officers, agents, and investigators, including assistance from the FBI.
Expressing condolences for the loss of young Ariel Garcia, Everett Chief of Police John DeRousse conveyed disappointment at the tragic outcome. The community came together to support the search efforts, with Mayor Cassie Franklin acknowledging the hard work of law enforcement and urging for continued investigation to ensure justice for the young boy. The city remains somber as they mourn the heartbreaking loss of Ariel.