Westminster, Colorado — A 38-year-old Colorado man has been charged with first-degree murder after authorities say he killed the mother of his children and then moved her body around in a shopping cart for several days before dumping it in a trash can at a public park.
Prosecutors say the killing of Annette Valdez, 37, is a deeply disturbing case of domestic violence escalating into homicide, raising renewed concerns about the limits of protection orders and the safety of abuse survivors.
Body Discovered at Willowbrook Park
On December 4, the Westminster Police Department announced it was investigating a suspicious death after Valdez’s body was discovered inside a garbage can near Willowbrook Park, located in a northern suburb of Denver.
Detectives later confirmed the death was being treated as a homicide. According to local reports, Valdez’s body may have remained in the trash can for up to six days before being found. Authorities have not yet released an official cause of death, citing ongoing forensic and autopsy testing.
Suspect Arrested One Day Later
Police arrested Thomas Perales on December 5, one day after the discovery. Investigators say Perales was homeless at the time and allegedly admitted to killing Valdez.
According to arrest documents, Perales told officers that after killing her, he transported her body from place to place in a shopping cart, an act authorities described as both deliberate and chilling. Police believe he initially left her body near a creek before eventually discarding it in a park trash can.
Charges Filed by Prosecutors
The 17th Judicial District Attorney’s Office has formally charged Perales with multiple felony counts, including:
- First-degree murder
- Tampering with a deceased human body
- Domestic violence as a habitual offender
- Two counts of violating a protection order
Prosecutors say the charges reflect a pattern of abuse and repeated violations of court-ordered restrictions.
History of Domestic Violence
Valdez’s family says her death followed years of documented domestic abuse. Her brother, Adam Larson, told local media that relatives repeatedly tried to help Valdez leave Perales.
“We tried so much to get her away from him, and every single time she went right back to him,” Larson said. “All she could say is, ‘That’s my kid’s father.’”
Larson added that he immediately suspected Perales when he learned of his sister’s death.
“I had a feeling it was him,” he said.
Authorities confirm Valdez had obtained multiple protection orders against Perales over the years.
Surveillance Incident Before the Killing
One of the most recent domestic violence incidents occurred shortly before Valdez’s death. Police say Valdez called her mother while watching Ring doorbell footage showing Perales attempting to break into her apartment.
Investigators allege he damaged the door and rubbed paint over the security camera, apparently trying to disable it. Despite the incident and existing protection orders, family members say Valdez continued to live in fear.
Recent Jail Release Raises Concerns
Perales had been released from jail on November 21, just weeks before Valdez was killed. Family members say the justice system failed to provide meaningful protection despite repeated warning signs.
“She didn’t have the resources that she needed to feel safe,” said Analisa Larson, Adam Larson’s wife. “They hand you a piece of paper and say, ‘Here is a protection order.’ But what do you do when he keeps coming back?”
The case has reignited debate over enforcement gaps, limited housing options, and insufficient long-term safety planning for domestic violence survivors.
Community Remembers Annette Valdez
Valdez is being remembered as a devoted mother, daughter, and sister. A GoFundMe fundraiser created in her name describes her as a loving parent whose life was cut short by domestic violence.
“Our family is devastated beyond words,” the fundraiser states. “Annette was a light in our lives—her kindness, laughter, and love touched everyone who knew her.”
Case Continues in Colorado Courts
Perales remains in custody as the case moves through Colorado’s court system. Prosecutors have not yet announced a trial date, and additional details are expected once forensic results are finalized.
As Westminster and the greater Denver area grapple with the tragedy, advocates say the case underscores the deadly risks faced by domestic violence victims, even when protection orders are in place.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, local and national resources are available to provide confidential help.
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