A San Antonio mother is facing two counts of capital murder after her young children were found dead inside a burned vehicle early Friday morning — and police say she was right there at the scene.
Key facts
- Suspect: Marlene Vidal, 34, from Edinburg, TX
- Victims: A 5-year-old boy and 7-year-old girl
- Charges: 2 counts capital murder + arson
- Location: Warehouse parking lot, Richland Hills Drive
What happened
Just after 5 a.m., a dog walker spotted a white Hyundai on fire in a San Antonio parking lot. A woman at the scene — later identified as Vidal — told the witness she had already called 911. She had not.
When firefighters arrived and put out the blaze, investigators found two children inside the car. The 5-year-old boy, who was autistic and nonverbal, and his 7-year-old sister did not survive.
What police are saying
“She just indicated that she was the one that we would be looking for.”— Asst. Police Chief Jesus Salame Jr., San Antonio PD
Police say surveillance footage, evidence from the scene, and statements from Vidal all point to her being “solely responsible” for the children’s deaths. She was arrested and booked into Bexar County Jail by Friday evening.
The father’s reaction
The children’s father — who no longer lived with Vidal — confirmed to local media that the couple’s son had an autism diagnosis. He described himself as devastated.
What’s next
Vidal was arraigned Friday night. When the murder charges were read aloud, she broke into tears and asked when her trial would begin. Investigators have not yet confirmed a motive, though police noted mental health issues “may have played a role.”
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue speaking with family members and others connected to the case.
