An estranged couple who used to live with their family in Pleasanton and were reported missing last week by their young adult children in San Diego have been declared dead in what investigators have initially determined to be a murder-suicide.
The bodies of Melissa Soto and Johnny Soto were found inside a vehicle in the parking lot of a casino in Campo, about an hour east of San Diego, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
San Diego police Lt. Steve Shebloski said the 52-year-old man appears to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound while the 45-year-old woman died from injuries consistent with “a tragic case of domestic violence … a homicide with her husband as the lone suspect.”
Melissa Soto and Johnny Soto, who separated in July, were originally reported missing under suspicious circumstances from the San Ysidro neighborhood since the night of Dec. 20, their three children told NBC 7 in San Diego in an interview around Christmas in a push to raise awareness and locate their parents.
The family previously resided in Pleasanton before relocating to Southern California about five years ago, with their children attending local schools including the oldest graduating from Foothill High School.
Elaine Hadley is a dedicated journalist covering the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. news. With a keen interest in politics and a commitment to uncovering the truth, she provides insightful commentary and in-depth analysis on domestic issues. When not reporting, Elaine enjoys exploring the diverse cultures and landscapes of the United States.
