Maria Calderon, 70

Maria Calderon, a 70-year-old Latina, died Sunday, Dec. 16, in the 11100 block of Rincon Avenue in Pacoima, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

Los Angeles Police Department Lt. Paul Vernon called the incident "especially sad and tragic."

The suspected assailant, identified as Joe Calderon, was raised by his grandparents and stabbed his grandmother, Maria Calderon, at their home Sunday morning, police said.

Investigators believe Joe Calderon, a 22-year-old Latino, fought with his grandparents Saturday night and, after his grandfather went to work Sunday, again argued with his grandmother Maria, Vernon said. This time, Joe Calderon allegedly began beating his grandmother, who called her daughter for help.

When the daughter arrived at the home, Joe Calderon "confronted her" outside the home "with a long metal stick," Vernon said. She went around the corner and called police about 9 a.m.

Responding officers detained Joe Calderon, whom Vernon said had blood on his hands.

Maria Calderon was found dead in the kitchen, Vernon said.

Vernon said investigators found several possible weapons at the scene, including the barbecue fork that "appeared to have blood on the prongs." Forensic tests will be conducted to determine whether the utensil was in fact used in the killing, he added.

Anyone with additional information about the killing is asked to contact Det. Gretchen Schultz at Mission homicide at (818) 838-9951. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

--Andrew Blankstein and Kate Mather