Authorities have taken into custody the parents of a 2-year-old girl who tragically lost her life and was later found buried in the California wilderness over a year ago. They face serious charges, including the alleged beating of the toddler to death and attempts to conceal the evidence.
Authorities announced that Riley Royal, 28, and his wife, Amanda Royal, 24, were arrested on Tuesday and face charges of murder with special allegations and child abuse resulting in death.
On January 7, 2024, deputies from the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call for a welfare check on a 2-year-old girl at a home located in the 20000 block of Sunset Lane in Redding, California, approximately 150 miles northwest of Sacramento.
Law enforcement officials faced challenges in reaching anyone at the home, but ultimately managed to connect with the young child’s parents, Riley and Amanda Royal, via phone.
Investigators, unable to find the toddler at home, questioned both parents about the girl’s location and discovered that she had passed away three months prior and had been “unlawfully buried,” according to the sheriff’s office. Investigators from the sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit have assumed control of the inquiry.
In the first interaction with the Royals, authorities discovered another child under their care, who was subsequently placed in protective custody with Shasta County Children’s Services.
On October 29, 2024, an arrest warrant was executed for Riley Royal and Amanda Royal, leading to charges of their daughter’s murder.
The parents were set to appear in court on Thursday for their arraignments, but the hearings have been postponed to Monday.
The parents are currently in custody at the Shasta County Jail with no option for bond.
Local residents were taken aback by the recent arrest.