A Kern County Jury has found Victor Farias Jr. guilty in the murder of his children’s mother.
A Kern County Jury has found Victor Farias Jr. guilty in the murder of his children’s mother.
On October 2, 2026, in a case prosecuted by Deputy DA Leanne Wilder, Farias was found guilty of first degree murder, child abuse, and resisting arrest. The jury also found true that Farias was armed with a knife at the time of the murder.
On March 25, 2026, just before 10:00p.m., Bakersfield Police officers were dispatched to a domestic dispute. Upon arrival, officers located Yolanda Rojo on the floor, with a slight pulse, covered in blood, and suffering from multiple stab wounds. The victim was rushed to Kern Medical where she was pronounced deceased.
Farias and the victim shared two children together, ages six and four, who witnessed the murder. The six-year-old child attempted to help her mother by calling the cops, but Farias took the phone away. Although being chased by Farias, the child was able to run out of the house to tell a neighbor.
Farias ultimately fled the area. After an extensive search, Farias was located in Tehachapi on March 26, 2026, where he resisted arrest.
Through an autopsy, it was discovered that the victim suffered 69 sharp force injuries on her head, neck, and back along with 23 stab wounds and numerous defensive wounds on her hands and arms.
DA Zimmer commented; “Victor Farias took Yolanda’s life believing he could silence her and conceal the truth. However, through the courage of her young children and the evidence recovered at the crime scene, Farias was ultimately found guilty of her premeditated murder, ensuring that Yolanda and her children obtained the justice they deserve.”
Sentencing is set for November 2, 2026 where Faria faces up to 25 years to life in prison, plus an additional year.
This verdict is especially meaningful during this time as October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Every act of domestic violence matters, and tragedies like this remind us of the importance of advocacy, education, and community support. Anyone in need of support is encouraged to contact the Kern County Family Justice Center for FREE assistance.
