A Glendale firefighter-paramedic was charged on Friday, Jan. 23 with the domestic violence murder of his wife at their North Hollywood home earlier this week.
“The domestic violence death of Mayra Jimenez is a devastating reminder of the persistent scourge of intimate partner violence in our communities,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman. “No one, including those sworn to protect others, is above the law and we will hold the defendant accountable for this horrific crime and bring justice to Ms. Jimenez and her loved ones. Too often, cases of domestic violence go unreported and have the potential to end tragically, as in this instance. I want to urge anyone experiencing or witnessing domestic abuse to contact the Los Angeles County Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 978-3600.”
Andrew Jimenez is charged with one count of murder with an allegation of using an axe as a deadly weapon. Jimenez has served with the Glendale Fire Dept. since April 28, 2008.
Arraignment was scheduled for Jan. 23 in Department 30 of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center.
The victim was found deceased in the couple’s home on Jan. 21.
If convicted as charged, Jimenez faces 26 years to life in state prison.
Deputy District Attorneys Chelsea Blatt and Kelsey McKeever-Unger of the Family Violence Division are prosecuting the case. It remains under investigation by the Los Angeles Police Dept.
The City of Glendale issued a statement regarding the active homicide investigation.
“This is an extremely serious and deeply troubling matter. First and foremost, our hearts are with the victim’s family and loved ones, and we extend our sincere condolences as they grieve this tragic loss,” reads the statement in part.
The Los Angeles Police Dept. is the lead agency in this investigation and the Glendale Fire Dept. stated it is cooperating fully.
“Our condolences are with the victim’s family and loved ones,” said Fire Chief Jeff Brooks. “We are prepared to support those impacted by this tragedy and we are also ensuring our firefighters and staff have access to support resources as they process this loss.”
Any additional questions regarding the investigation should be directed to the Los Angeles Police Dept. at (213) 486-1000.
The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.