Shocking Murders: Indian-Origin Woman Arrested for Killing Friends in California

In a disturbing case from California, Anila Baby, an Indian-origin woman, has been arrested for allegedly murdering two of her friends in separate incidents. The victims, Ann Mary Mathew and Anjana Hari, were both 35 years old and originally from Kerala. The tragic events unfolded on August 28, with Baby facing serious charges that could lead to a life sentence if convicted. As investigations continue, the families of the victims are seeking support to bring their remains back to India for final rites. This shocking story raises questions about the motives behind such violence among friends.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 12, 2026, 15:25 IST

Tragic Events Unfold in California

In a shocking turn of events, an Indian-origin woman has been taken into custody for the alleged murders of two friends in California. Anila Baby, aged 32, is accused of stabbing one victim and running over another with her vehicle during separate incidents, as reported by law enforcement officials.

The victims, both aged 35 and identified as Ann Mary Mathew and Anjana Hari, were friends of Baby, all hailing from Kerala. The tragic incidents unfolded on August 28 in the cities of San Jose and Milpitas, which are located less than 20 kilometers apart.

Authorities connected the two murders and identified Baby as the primary suspect. She was arrested on the same day, initially facing charges for the Milpitas incident. However, on September 8, she was also charged with the murder of Mathew.

The San Jose Police Department stated that the investigation into the motives and circumstances surrounding these events is ongoing.

Baby made her first court appearance in Santa Clara County on Thursday and is set to return on November 17, where she may enter a plea. If convicted, she could face a sentence ranging from 50 years to life in prison.

The first murder reportedly took place at Mathew's residence in San Jose, where she was discovered by her husband with multiple stab wounds. Witnesses indicated that an unexpected visitor had arrived at her door.

Approximately 90 minutes later, Baby allegedly summoned Hari to the parking lot of her apartment complex in Milpitas. Friends described the two women as close companions. Witnesses recounted that Hari seemed calm as she approached Baby's SUV, but the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated, striking her.

Following the incident, Baby reportedly fled the scene, colliding with three other cars. Police later located her blue Toyota SUV parked near a retail pharmacy, where she appeared disoriented and had blood on her arms and legs.

Family and friends are grappling with the violent end of what was once a close friendship. Speculations have arisen regarding Baby's work-related issues in the U.S. as a possible factor, although police have not confirmed this.

In response to the tragedy, the Keralam government is working to repatriate the remains of both victims to India, with state officials promising assistance to their families in expediting legal processes. The Indian Embassy and the Malayali Association in California are also providing support as the families await the completion of post-mortem examinations and other legal formalities before the bodies can be returned for final rites.