A tragic double stabbing in Burbank has left a beloved elementary school teacher dead and her daughter hospitalized, with police arresting a suspect following an intensive manhunt.
Victim Identified as First-Grade Teacher Arti Varma
Authorities confirmed that 59-year-old Arti Varma died from injuries sustained in the early morning attack. Her 25-year-old daughter was also stabbed and remains under medical care.
Officers from the Burbank Police Department responded to the 2800 block of North Brighton Street around 6 a.m., where they discovered both victims with serious stab wounds.
Suspect Captured After Hours-Long Search
The suspect initially fled the scene, prompting a large-scale investigation that included witness interviews, surveillance footage review and neighborhood canvassing.
Police later identified Sergio Fraire, 30, as a person of interest. A SWAT team executed a search warrant at a residence on East Palm Avenue, where Fraire was taken into custody.
He has since been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
Motive and Relationship Still Under Investigation
Investigators have not yet confirmed whether the suspect had any known relationship with the victims. Authorities say the motive behind the stabbing remains unclear as the investigation continues.
School Community Mourns Loss
The Burbank Unified School District confirmed that Varma was a first-grade teacher at Bret Harte Elementary School.
In a statement, the district described her as a dedicated educator known for her warmth and commitment to students. Counseling and mental health support services have been made available to students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Second Tragedy Hits Same School Community
This marks the second time in recent years that a teacher from Bret Harte Elementary has been the victim of a homicide. In 2024, another teacher was found dead in a separate case that also led to a murder charge.
Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to gather evidence and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding the deadly attack.