BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Coroner’s officials on Monday said the cause and manner of death of 8-year-old Genesis Mata, whose body showed signs of severe abuse, are pending further studies.
The child’s father and stepmother are charged with murder, torture and other crimes.
Ray Mata Jr. and Gabriela Bustamonte admitted to abusing the girl — including pouring scalding water on her — over a two-day period at the La Quinta Inn by Buck Owens Boulevard, police said in court filings…