Los Angeles Firefighter Accused of Killing Wife With Ax After Reading Her Diary, Police Say

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — A Southern California firefighter and paramedic is behind bars after police say he beat his wife to death with an ax inside their North Hollywood home, then attempted to conceal the crime by requesting a welfare check just hours later.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Andrew Jimenez, 45, was arrested this week on suspicion of murder in the death of his wife, Mayra Jimenez, 55.

Welfare Check Leads Police to “Horrific” Crime Scene

The killing occurred earlier this week at the couple’s home on Satsuma Avenue in North Hollywood, a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley.

Police said that around 4 a.m. Wednesday, Jimenez — who was off duty at the time — walked into the LAPD’s Northeast Community Police Station in Glassell Park and requested a welfare check on his wife, claiming he was unable to reach her.

Officers responded to the residence and instead discovered what law enforcement sources described as a “horrific” scene. Inside the home, Mayra Jimenez was found bludgeoned to death, with an ax located near her body, according to investigators.

Suspect Confesses After Questioning, Police Say

Around 4:25 a.m., police questioned Andrew Jimenez about the circumstances surrounding his wife’s death. Authorities said he later confessed to killing her.

In a statement, the LAPD said investigators determined the suspect and victim were married and that the killing constituted an incident of domestic violence.

The welfare check request, police said, did not ultimately deflect suspicion from the suspect.

Attorney Claims Diary Sparked Deadly Confrontation

While initial police reports did not identify a motive, Jimenez’s attorney later suggested that romantic jealousy may have played a role.

According to the defense, Jimenez had read his wife’s diary moments before the killing, which allegedly indicated she had been unfaithful.

“Our office is currently in contact with law enforcement regarding a diary of the decedent, apparently read moments before the homicide, that verified infidelity by the decedent,” the attorney told local media.

Investigators have not publicly confirmed whether the diary will factor into charging decisions.

Neighbors Say Violence Was Completely Unexpected

Friends and neighbors told local outlets they had never witnessed any signs of domestic conflict between the couple.

“Such a violent crime, the extreme,” one neighbor said. “There’s never been any violence or domestic violence or signs of that at all. So, I’m really surprised.”

Another neighbor described overhearing police discuss the scene.

“I could just hear them talk about how horrific it was,” the neighbor said. “It was just bloody.”

Family members said the couple had been married for 10 years.

Victim Remembered as Beloved Teacher and Union Representative

Before her death, Mayra Jimenez worked as a third-grade teacher at Wilshire Park Elementary School in central Los Angeles. She was also a union representative for United Teachers Los Angeles, according to school officials.

The school released a statement mourning her loss.

“We are heartbroken by this loss,” the statement read. “Mrs. Jimenez was a beloved teacher, colleague, and friend, and she made a lasting impact on our school community and the students she served.”

The statement asked the public to respect the family’s privacy as they grieve.

Fire Department Places Suspect on Leave

Andrew Jimenez has worked for the Glendale Fire Department since 2008 as a firefighter and paramedic. He had recently been promoted and was praised for his response during the Palisades fire, according to local reports.

Following his arrest, the department placed him on administrative leave.

“This is an extremely serious and deeply troubling matter,” the department said in a statement. “First and foremost, our hearts are with the victim’s family and loved ones.”

Bail Set at $2 Million as Investigation Continues

Police said they removed two large rifles from the residence during their investigation, though it remains unclear whether any firearms were involved in the killing.

Andrew Jimenez is currently being held at the Los Angeles County Jail on $2 million bail, according to sheriff’s office records. The investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors prepare to move forward with the case.

As Los Angeles continues to grapple with another devastating case of domestic violence, authorities are urging those experiencing conflict at home to seek help before tragedy strikes. For continued updates on this case and other major public safety investigations across California, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.