AKERSFIELD, Calif. - We are learning more about the man accused of killing a woman and baby Saturday -- and their relationship. The coroner has not released the victims names, but family members tell us they are Katrina Rivera and her newborn baby.
The sheriff's department released this photo Friday of Rivera, who was 9 months pregnant at the time, and her boyfriend, Manuel Vela, 28. Officials said she was at risk and missing under suspicious circumstances.
Family members held a vigil Saturday night for Rivera and her baby. Candles lined the street near East Bakersfield High School, where law enforcement officers were able to apprehend Vela after a slow-speed chase.
We spoke with her cousin who says the family is in shock. Yvette Monroe said, "She was a beautiful person. a loving heart, a caring person. she made it a point to make people laugh. she was compassionate. she was caring. she loved her family. she loved her children. she was excited about having her son."
Sheriff's deputies followed up on a reported sighting on vela Saturday morning. That's when Vela led deputies on a pursuit, reportedly hitting multiple cars along the way and attempting to hit a CHP officer.
Deputies were able to stop the Hyundai at Mt. Vernon Avenue and Flower Street. Vela ran from the car, with a baby in his arms. Sheriff's officials say he then left the baby, and continued running. He was eventually taken into custody.
Sheriff's officials said the baby was pronounced dead at Kern Medical.
There are still many unanswered questions about what happened to Rivera and the baby and when the baby was born.
The sherrif's department was very tight lipped when we spoke with them today. They wouldn't take any questions from media.
We have learned more about Vela's criminal history. He has been convicted of domestic violence three times since 2009 and as recently as June of 2016. Court records show Rivera filed a restraining order against Vela twice, citing domestic violence. One case was filed in 2010, the other in 2011.
Vela was arrested on suspicion of murder, kidnapping, mayhem and other felonies. He's being held without bail.