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Rita Reyes Morales, 87

Rita Reyes Morales (2010-04-30)

Rita Morales, an 87-year-old Latina, was killed Friday, April 30, in the 7000 block of Eton Avenue in Canoga Park, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

Police were called to a residence just after 9 a.m., according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

When officers arrived, they were met by Arthur Reyes Morales, a 63-year-old Latino, who immediately surrendered to police.

Once authorities entered the location, they found the bodies of Rita Morales and Manuel Reyes, an 85-year-old Latino; both appeared to have beaten to death with a hammer.

Manuel Reyes and Rita Morales were the elderly uncle and mother of the assailant. Reyes Morales was the primary caregiver for the pair, police said.

Reyes Morales was arrested and booked at the Van Nuys Jail on two counts of murder. He is being held on $2-million bail.

-- Kate Linthicum

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