Connecticut mother and aunt arrested after discovery of 12-year-old girl’s remains in a container.

Authorities in Connecticut have arrested the mother and aunt of 12-year-old Jacqueline Torres, whose remains were discovered last week in the backyard of an abandoned structure in New Britain. This tragic case highlights ongoing concerns regarding child welfare and domestic violence.

On Wednesday, New Britain police responded to reports of suspicious activity at the location, where they subsequently found a large container in the backyard. Upon further investigation, human remains were identified as belonging to an adolescent female, later confirmed to be Jacqueline Torres at a news briefing on Monday. The investigation reveals that the girl was last in contact with her father, Victor Torres, in late January of this year, and officials believe she likely died approximately a year prior while her family resided in Farmington.

The girl’s mother, Karla Garcia, faces serious charges including murder with special circumstances and conspiracy to commit murder. She is currently held on a million bond. Additional charges against García include first-degree unlawful restraint, risk of injury to a child, tampering with physical evidence, and cruelty to a minor. Her sister, Jacqueline Garcia, the victim’s aunt, is charged with risk of injury to a child, first-degree unlawful restraint, and cruelty towards minors, with a bond set at million.

A third individual, Jonatan Nanita, García’s boyfriend, has also been implicated, facing charges related to murder and evidence tampering. However, he has not yet been apprehended, and law enforcement officials are actively searching for him, with a warrant for his arrest also set at million.

Reports indicate that prior to her death, Jacqueline endured physical abuse and malnutrition. Additionally, authorities claim her body was concealed in a basement before being moved following the family’s relocation in March 2025. The exact cause of her death remains under investigation by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Law enforcement is collaborating closely with Farmington police on this ongoing investigation. New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart noted that the abandoned building where Jacqueline’s remains were found has been unoccupied for over two years, stating there is no known connection between the suspects and the property. This case has captured public attention and raised pressing questions about child safety in domestic environments. Further developments are anticipated as authorities continue their investigation.