A 43-year-old woman who was critically injured during an alleged attack inside her Poway home earlier this month has died from her injuries, authorities said Friday. Her former boyfriend, who investigators believe was responsible for the attack, is now wanted for murder.
Azucena Gonzalez Martinez was found suffering from severe traumatic injuries after deputies responded to a 911 call at a home in the 14100 block of Brighton Avenue shortly before 3 a.m. on Aug. 11.
Investigators identified Jeronimo Cedillo, 38, as the suspect. Authorities say Cedillo and Gonzalez Martinez had previously been in a dating relationship and that he allegedly forced his way into the residence before attacking her with a deadly weapon.
Cedillo left the home before deputies arrived. Gonzalez Martinez was taken to a local hospital in critical condition, where she remained for several weeks before her death.
The Sheriff’s Office initially described the incident as an assault with a deadly weapon. Investigators later identified Cedillo as the suspect and obtained an active felony warrant for his arrest on suspicion of attempted murder and other charges. With Gonzalez Martinez’s death, the case is now being investigated as a homicide.
Cedillo is also known as Geronimo Cedillo. Authorities describe him as 5 feet, 7 inches tall and approximately 200 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Investigators say he is known to frequent areas of San Diego County, Los Angeles County and Mexico.
Authorities have said Cedillo may have fled to Mexico following the attack, although his current whereabouts have not been confirmed.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Homicide Unit is asking anyone with information about Cedillo or the investigation to contact Detective Eric Garcia at 858-285-6330.
Anonymous tips can also be provided to San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for information that leads to an arrest.
Cedillo has not been located, and the investigation remains ongoing.
