Relatives of South Gate Man Say He Did Not Kill Neighbors

Relatives of a 31-year-old South Gate man who was arrested in connection with the stabbing deaths of his next-door neighbors said Monday that he frequently did repair work at the couple’s house but did not commit the murders.

Sheriff’s investigators booked Samuel Zamudio on suspicion of murder after collecting evidence and witness statements, a spokeswoman said. Neighbors reported that the bodies were discovered by Zamudio’s daughter, who went next door to the home of Elmer Benson, 79, and his wife Gladys, 70, to borrow a typewriter.

“I just can’t believe what happened, that they are blaming my brother-in-law,” said Jesus Barron, who said he lives with Zamudio and his wife. “He is innocent.”

Zamudio was unemployed but performed repair work for the couple on occasion and fixed their washing machine last week, according to residents. Investigators would not say what led them to arrest Zamudio.