Watch CBS News

Slain Teen Soccer Star May Have Been Victim Of Love Triangle

WINNETKA (CBS) — Two suspects were behind bars Wednesday, accused in the murder of 17-year-old Francisco "Pancho" Rodriguez. LAPD officials would not disclose the nature of the relationship between the suspects and the victim, but information uncovered by KCAL9 and CBS2 confirms a clear connection.

Jason Schuman, 24, and Elizabeth Ibarra, 19, were arrested Tuesday after police received an anonymous tip in the Jan 11 murder of Rodriguez.

Fellow students of Rodriguez at El Camino Real Senior High reported rumors of a love triangle between Rodriguez and Ibarra.

"A lot of people thought that he was flirting with her and that's what triggered everything" said Arielle Adams. "And that he just stopped and that upset the boyfriend, or it upset her and she told the boyfriend."

Ibarra's Facebook page lists her relationship status as "complicated." One of her racy public profile photos displays a suggestive comment by Rodriguez, dated July 15, 2011.

Ibarra Facebook Photo
(credit: facebook.com)

Neighbors of Schuman believed he and Ibarra were in a romantic relationship. A photo on Ibarra's Facebook shows what appears to be Schuman with a baby.

Schuman's neighbors report he had a very short temper. They say they often heard arguing coming from the townhome he shared with his father and son.

"Never underestimate people," said neighbor Sultan Fraihat. "Beacuse no matter how much you think they're not tough or whatever at all, things happen."

Schuman and Ibarra both have criminal histories including assault with a deadly weapon, battery, and forgery.

Police investigators would like to speak with the anonymous tipster.

"We need that person to come forward, identify himself or herself, and provide us with additional information that we need to further solidify this case," said LAPD Commdr. Jorge Villegas.

Schuman and Ibarra were being held without bail.

RELATED:
Two Suspects Under Arrest In Murder Of Teen Soccer Star

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.