Trailer Fire Ruled a Murder/Suicide

The Laramie County Sheriff’s Department investigation into the deaths of 34 year old Erica Delgado and 11 year old Miriam Ortiz has been determined to be a murder-suicide.  Both were found in a burning trailer at 3008 Terry Road, Space #17, during the early morning hours of Friday, February 3.

Spokesman Gerry Luce says the body of Delgado was found near the front door of the trailer and Ortiz was found in a bedroom.  Cause of death for both was due to smoke inhalation and burns.

Luce says a number of gas cans were located inside the trailer as well as alcohol bottles near Delgado’s body.  Toxicology indicated a .163 blood alcohol level in Delgado.

The investigation showed multiple origin points that included kitchen, living room, and the bedroom doorway where Ortiz was located, as well as a back bedroom, and the main entrance door.  The fire origin points were also such that it would make it difficult for anyone to enter or leave the trailer.  All the doors were locked from the inside and no personal property had been destroyed or taken from the location.   Three propane type lighters were also located near Delgado.

Security videos from a local convenience store showed Delgado purchasing gasoline in gas cans that appear to be the same as those found inside the trailer.  The investigation also revealed text messages sent to acquaintances the previous two days prior to the fire that indicated the possibility of suicide.