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Police identify man accused of murdering Midvale siblings

Posted at 8:22 AM, Jul 08, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-08 19:26:39-04

MIDVALE, Utah -- The Unified Police Department released the name of the suspect they believe shot and killed siblings Jose and Abril Izagaga on Wednesday, July 6.

Police said 29-year-old Mario Cervantes was arrested in West Valley Thursday night.

Authorities said a brother and sister were killed around 11 p.m. Wednesday near 759 W. and Center St. outside the Millcreek Apartments after a disagreement with a family friend and group of men.

According to investigators and neighbors, the argument erupted over an article of clothing, potentially a T-shirt.

The group of men came to confront 15-year-old Abril Izagaga about money she may have owed them for the T-shirt.  When the discussion became physical, Abril's 16-year-old brother Jose came out to defend his sister while armed with a knife.

Police said that one of the men in the group pulled out a handgun and fired several shots, killing the sibling before running from the scene.

The two were found holding each other according to police.

Those who would like to donate to the family to assist with funeral expenses can do so by visiting any Wells Fargo branch and contributing to the Benefit Memorial Fund for Abril Izazaga and Jose Izazaga.