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4d ago

Mother, Boyfriend and Aunt Held on High Bonds in Death of 12-Year-Old Found in New Britain Storage Bin

Investigators say Jacqueline “Mimi” Torres-Garcia likely died last fall in Farmington after prolonged abuse, prompting state reviews of prior oversight.

Jacqueline “Mimi” Torres-Garcia.
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Family and friends of 12-year-old Jacqueline “Mimi” Torres gather outside Litchfield Judicial District Courthouse in Torrington after the arraignment of Torres’ mother, Karla Garcia; her aunt, Jackelyn Garcia; and Karla’s boyfriend, Jonatan Nanita, on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025. (Aaron Flaum/Hartford Courant)
AVALON, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 12: A powerful nor’easter brings coastal flooding to the Jersey Shore on Sunday afternoon, with high tide sending water over docks and into streets in Avalon, New Jersey, United States on October 12, 2025. Strong winds and heavy surf caused dangerous conditions along the coast as officials urged residents to avoid flooded areas.

Overview

  • Police identified remains found Oct. 8 in a large container behind an abandoned building at 80 Clark St. as 12-year-old Jacqueline “Mimi” Torres-Garcia after a witness reported items being dropped off.
  • Karla Garcia and Jonatan Nanita face murder with special circumstances and related counts, while Jackelyn Garcia is charged with unlawful restraint, risk of injury and intentional cruelty, with bonds set at $5 million, $5 million and $1 million.
  • The three were arraigned without entering pleas and are due back in court on Nov. 14 as the investigation continues under sealed warrants.
  • Authorities believe the child died in fall 2024 while living in Farmington, her body was kept in the family’s basement and later moved when the family relocated in March 2025; detectives searched the former home on Monday.
  • The medical examiner has not yet determined cause or manner of death; DCF and the Office of the Child Advocate have opened reviews, noting the child was withdrawn for homeschooling in August 2024 and that her siblings are in state custody.