East SBV Times

On September 17, 2024, at 7:49 p.m., deputies from the Morongo Station responded to a call regarding an "unknown problem" near the 3300 block of Bluegrass Avenue in the unincorporated county area of the Morongo Basin. Upon arrival, deputies detained Derick Laija, a 34-year-old resident of Ontario, for assaulting three family members: Hadgu Abraham, Freweiny Abraham, and Asmerom Abraham.

Hadgu Abraham was found outside the residence with blunt force trauma injuries to his head and later succumbed to his injuries. Freweiny Abraham, aged 61 and Hadgu’s wife, sustained head injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment. Asmerom Abraham, aged 31 and Hadgu’s son, suffered injuries to his head, upper body, and lower body and was also treated at a nearby hospital. A bat was recovered from the scene.

The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division-Homicide Detail took over the investigation. Laija had rented a short-term rental near the incident location with a friend. Authorities believe Laija was under the influence of psilocybin mushrooms and exhibiting erratic behavior. He allegedly entered the Abrahams' property and attempted to steal their vehicle. When confronted by the family members, Laija reportedly attacked them unprovoked. The assault resulted in Hadgu's death and significant injuries to Asmerom and Freweiny.

Laija was arrested on charges of murder (P.C. 187) and attempted murder (P.C. 664/187).

Detective Francisco Demara with the Homicide Detail can be contacted at 909-890-4904 for any information related to this case. Anonymous tips can be provided through We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or wetip.com.

Refer: Detective F. Demara or Sergeant N. Craig

Station: Specialized Investigations Division

Phone No.: (909) 890-4904

Case No.: DR# 092401587 / H# 2024-095

Shannon D. Dicus

Sheriff-Coroner

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department