Shocking video shows kidnapping of Indian family in California; Found dead later

Four members of an Indian origin family, including an 8-month-old child, who were kidnapped from Merced County in California were found dead, as per the statement of a local sheriff.

A 48-year-old man was taken into custody in connection with the kidnapping and murder. A surveillance video of the accused forcing the family into a truck has been shared online. The victims have been identified as 8-month-old Aroohi Dheri, her mother Jasleen Kaur (27), father Jasdeep Singh (36) and uncle Amandeep Singh (39). Authorities reportedly mentioned that the accused, identified as Jesus Manuel Salgado, a convicted robber, tried to take his own life after the kidnappings.

“Our worst fears have been confirmed. There’s no words right now to describe the anger I feel and the senselessness of this incident. I said it earlier: There’s a special place in hell for this guy,” Sheriff Vern Warnke was quoted as saying by media. “Investigators, including crime lab technicians from the California Department of Justice, would be processing the crime scene through the night,” he reportedly added.

Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann also expressed grief over the deaths and demanded a high-level probe into the matter. “Brutal kidnapping & murder of 8 mnt old Aroohi, her parents & uncle Amandeep Singh is a matter of shock & concern for Pbis worldwide. I urge @DrSJaishankar to take up issue of safety & security of Indians with US admin even as I extend my deep condolences with bereaved family,” Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal said in a tweet.