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New Details Emerge Following Arrests Of 3 In Connection With Murder Of Fontana Father

FONTANA (CBSLA.com) — New details are emerging about the suspects arrested in connection with the murder of a Fontana father last month.

The body of 40-year-old Alejandro Padilla was found July 26 inside his burning vehicle in the 1000 block of Etiwanda Street in Rialto, about six miles from his home on Beechcraft Avenue.

The father of two was reportedly attacked and abducted from his driveway as he was trying to leave for work.

On Tuesday, police announced the arrests of three people in connection with the murder, including the former boyfriend of Padilla's daughter, as well as his mother.

Fontana Murder Suspects
Richard Gonzalez (center) was arrested on Tuesday along with Alma Quezada (l) and Edward Morales. (credit: Fontana Police Department)

Edward Morales, 18, dated Padilla's daughter, Emily. His mother, Alma Casada, was said to be a family friend. Casada was arrested on suspicion of accessory to murder.

Padilla had reportedly been trying to protect his daughter after she ended the relationship with Morales.

"He told me, you know, what is it that he needs to do," said Tony Granados, a family friend who said Padilla confided in him. "I recommended that he really go and get that restraining order done."

Richard Gonzalez, 18, was also arrested in connection with the murder.

Arraignment for the suspects could be as early as Wednesday.

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