1978 Santa Barbara murder gets national attention

The murder of a child in Santa Barbara 35 years ago sent shock waves throughout the community. Now the family’s tragedy is getting national attention.

Discovery Channel will air the story behind 7-year old Javier Angel’s death in December, 1978.

Javierwas found strangled and stuffed in trash bags in a house next door to his parent’s Santa Barbara market.

Julia Diaz, 22,was convicted of the murder and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison.

Javier’s sister, Yolanda, says they’re hoping their tragedy will help others. She adds that it’s important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Diaz will spend the rest of her life behind bars in a women’s prison just outside Fresno. She is not eligiblefor a parole hearing for about another 15 years.
The story will airFriday night on the Investigations Discovery Channel at 10, Saturday at 1 a.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.

NewsChannel 3 Reporter Shirin Rajaee reports.