A tragic incident has led to the arrest of a California couple, charged with murder and child abuse following the death of a 7-year-old girl and the hospitalization of her 5-year-old sister. The suspects, Retuquel Dupree, a 27-year-old former police officer, and Jessica Savangsy, 26, face serious allegations in this heartbreaking case.

According to reports from KCRA, both Dupree and Savangsy have been charged with murder, conspiracy, and child abuse. The victims, who suffered these tragic fates, were identified as Savangsy’s daughters. The details surrounding their injuries remain undisclosed, leaving many questions unanswered.

On the morning of the incident, Roseville Police officers responded to a call at the couple’s home around 7:30 a.m., as detailed by CrimeOnline. Upon arrival, they discovered the 7-year-old girl with visible injuries, who was promptly transported to a hospital for urgent treatment. A search of the premises led officers to the 5-year-old girl, also injured, though her current medical status remains unclear.

In addition to the two victims, two other children were found in the home, fortunately unharmed. The ages of these children have not been released, but authorities have confirmed that they are now under the care of Child Protective Services, ensuring their safety and wellbeing.

Further complicating the situation, both Savangsy and Dupree had previously been arrested in October on charges of conspiracy and grand theft. Dupree additionally faced a charge for carrying a loaded firearm in public. Despite these charges, the couple had been released on bond, as reported by KCRA.

The Citrus Heights Police Department confirmed that Dupree was one of their officers for two months in 2021. They did provide any information about how he left the department but said he did not quit.

According to KTXL, Dupree filed a lawsuit against the Citrus Heights department claiming he was wrongfully fired after the mother of his two daughters filed a “false” police report claiming he pushed her. The status of that lawsuit is not known.

The Sacramento Bee reported that he worked as a community safety officer at Sierra College for six months last year before he was placed on administrative leave. The college would not provide further information.