Shasta County has faced a grim discovery and arrests in a disturbing child murder case. Authorities have detained two parents, Riley Royal, 28, and Amanda Royal, 24, on charges of murder and child abuse resulting in the death of their 2-year-old daughter. She was found to have been illegally buried after dying from physical abuse over a year ago, as reported by KCRA.
The case began to unfold on January 7, when deputies responded to a welfare check at the Royals' residence situated in the 20000 block of Sunset Lane, Redding. Contradictions emerged as the parents initially claimed they were not at home, yet it was later established that they were indeed inside, seemingly attempting to avoid law enforcement. During follow-up interviews, officers uncovered the tragic story of the child's death in October 2023, which led to her secret burial, as detailed by FOX40.
The investigation progressed on January 8 when officials exhumed the toddler's body from a hidden grave near the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. An autopsy determined the death was a homicide. The Royals, who had another child, are now facing legal challenges, and the surviving child has been placed in the protective custody of Shasta County Children's Services.
After thorough detective work, including interviews and medical examinations, an arrest warrant was issued yesterday. Both parents were taken to the Shasta County Jail without bail, awaiting their arraignment scheduled for the next day. Officials are urging anyone with information to contact the Shasta County Major Crimes Unit at 530-245-6135 or via email at [email protected].
