Suspect in Brutal Murders of California Mom, 11-Year-Old Daughter Waives Extradition to be Brought Back to Massachisetts

The Worcester Police Department has released new images in the search for Dejan Belnavis.
(Photo : Worcester Police Department via Facebook)

The man who is thought to be responsible for the tragic deaths of a mother serving in the National Guard and her 11-year-old daughter is anticipated to be returned to Massachusetts to answer for the charges against him.

According to an update from the Worcester District Attorney's Office, Dejan Belnavis has made an appearance in a San Diego, California courtroom on Friday. He submitted a waiver of extradition, which paves the way for his return to Massachusetts.

Worcester Shooting Suspect Waives Extradition

Dejan Belnavis, 27, was captured by authorities near the San Diego Zoo after a thorough investigation and the use of advanced law enforcement technology. Belnavis was arrested on Monday in relation to the devastating fatalities of Chasity Nuñez, 27, and her 11-year-old daughter Zella in Worcester last week.

Interim Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier expressed satisfaction with the use of advanced technology in locating the suspect, stating, "We were able to basically pinpoint where he was going to be."

Belnavis, along with Karel Mangual, is accused of approaching the car where Nuñez and her daughter were seated and opening fire, resulting in fatal injuries to both victims. The arrest of Belnavis has brought relief to the grieving family, as noted by Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty.

Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early made public his plans to bring Belnavis back to Massachusetts for trial on murder charges. In latest news, Mangual, the second suspect, has already faced charges of armed assault and carrying a firearm without a license in relation to the shooting incident. According to reports, it is expected that the charges against Mangual will be elevated to murder.

Chasity Nuñez, Daughter Zella's Death

Chasity Nuñez, a former member of the Connecticut Army National Guard, had served for four years as a patient administration specialist, earning several honors for her dedicated service.

Major Dave Pytlik, commander of the Connecticut National Guard's 142nd Medical Company, praised Nuñez's character, highlighting her social nature and commitment to duty.

Expressions of grief and disbelief have flooded in from the community, with city officials and residents mourning the loss of Chasity and Zella Nuñez. A joint statement from city leaders emphasized that such violence has no place in Worcester, pledging solidarity with the affected families.

Worcester City Councilor Khrystian King, who was acquainted with the Nuñez family, lamented the tragic turn of events, labeling it a "deeply, deeply dark day for our city."

Tyrae Sims, a relative of Chasity Nuñez, described her as a devoted mother and spoke fondly of Zella's resilience despite her challenges. Zella, who was born premature and legally blind, was remembered for her joyful disposition and loving nature.

Residents in the neighborhood where the shooting occurred were taken aback and saddened, emphasizing the usually calm and family-friendly ambiance. An image of the murder scene showed a depressing collection of evidence markers, acting as a chilling reminder of exactly what happened.