63-year-old killed as family is attacked during attempted car theft, California cops say

A 63-year-old man was killed and his two relatives were injured during an attempted car theft, California officials said.

On Sept. 17, Morongo Station deputies responded to a home and found Hadgu Abraham, 63, outside with blunt force trauma to the head, according to a news release by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

A bat was found and Abraham died of his injuries, officials said.

His wife, Freweiny Abraham, 61, had head injuries and was taken to the hospital for emergency treatment, deputies said.

Their son, 31-year-old Asmerom Abraham, had injuries on his head and body and was treated at a hospital, officials said.

During their investigation, officers learned a nearby renter identified as Derick Laija was believed to be under the influence of mushrooms and acting “erratic,” deputies said.

Laija was renting a short-term rental with a friend near the family’s home, officials said.

Laija went to their home and tried to steal their car before being confronted, officers said.

That’s when he attacked them, officials said.

Laija, 34, of Ontario, was arrested on a murder and attempted murder charge, officials said.

Anyone with information is asked to call 909-890-4904.

Morongo Valley is about a 120-mile drive east of Los Angeles.