Woman's Torso Found in Encino, Suspect Arrested: Possible Connection to Missing Wife

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ICARO Media Group
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09/11/2023 20h41

A shocking discovery in Encino has led to the arrest of a 35-year-old man after the dismembered torso of a woman was found near a dumpster. While investigators have not yet identified the victim, they believe it may be the suspect's missing wife. The incident has left the community in shock and raised concerns about the welfare of the missing woman and her parents.

The suspect, Samuel Haskell of Tarzana, was taken into custody on Wednesday and is currently being held in the Van Nuys Jail on $2 million bail. Authorities have stated that Haskell's wife, Mei Haskell, as well as her parents, Yanxiang Wang and Gaoshen Li, are currently missing. The family resided together in Tarzana, in the 4100 block of Coldstream Terrace, according to the police.

During an evening news conference, Detective Efren Gutierrez of the Los Angeles Police Department expressed concern about the family's whereabouts. He stated that the family members would typically be at home during the hours when the incident took place and that attempts to contact them via phone have been unsuccessful. The couple is reported to have three young boys, who are currently under the care of the county Department of Children and Family Services.

The investigation began when a homeless man discovered the dismembered torso in a plastic bag while searching for recyclables near a strip mall at Ventura Boulevard and Rubio Avenue. The torso was placed just outside a dumpster. Gutierrez revealed that upon entering the suspect's house, evidence of a crime was found, including blood evidence and other items. However, further details were not provided.

In a peculiar twist, a report was made to the police the night before the discovery of the torso, regarding a body in a black bag near the Tarzana home. However, the officers who responded at the time were unable to confirm the report.

As investigators work to establish the identity of the victim, it remains unclear how long the remains may have been near the dumpster or when the victim died. It is anticipated that DNA evidence will play a crucial role in the identification process.

The community is grappling with the shock and horror of the dismembered torso found in Encino. Concerns for the missing wife and her parents continue to grow, as authorities work tirelessly to unravel the circumstances surrounding this disturbing case.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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