Leticia Barrales Ramos, a 28-year-old mother from Winters, California, was last seen in the early hours of April 12, 2009. Neighbors reported hearing an argument from her home, followed by the sound of a car door slamming. Despite initial claims by her husband, Felipe Cruz Hernandez, that Leticia had gone to Mexico for a family emergency, evidence quickly pointed to foul play. Leticia left behind personal items crucial for travel, including her passport and over $1,000 in cash, raising suspicions.
Leticia's family and friends were alarmed by her sudden disappearance, particularly because she was a dedicated mother and worker. Her employer reported her missing when she failed to show up for her jobs. Investigations revealed bloodstains inside the couple’s home, which had been partially cleaned, suggesting a violent crime had taken place. Investigators determined that Cruz Hernandez had been the last person to see her and had motives, including their ongoing divorce and custody battle.
In December 2009, despite Leticia’s body never being found, Cruz Hernandez was convicted of second-degree murder based on the evidence and was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. In 2024, during his first parole hearing, he admitted to killing Leticia but showed no remorse, leading to the denial of his parole.
Last Seen: Apr 12, 2009
