Two Friends Killed Within 90 Minutes, Indian-Origin Woman Charged in California

An Indian-origin woman has been charged with killing two of her friends in separate attacks in California’s South Bay region, allegedly stabbing one victim at her home and running over the other with an SUV within a span of about 90 minutes.

Anila Baby, 32, was arrested on August 28 after investigators linked her to the deaths of Ann Mary Mathew, 35, and Anjana Hari, 35. The three women were friends and had roots in Kerala.

The first killing took place in San Jose at Mathew’s home on Linda Vista Street. Police said Mathew was found unconscious inside the residence with stab wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. Prosecutors said she had also been strangled.

About 90 minutes later, Baby allegedly called Hari to the parking lot of their apartment complex in nearby Milpitas. According to investigators, Hari approached Baby’s SUV, which suddenly accelerated and struck her.

Baby allegedly fled after hitting Hari and subsequently collided with three other vehicles. Police later located the SUV near a pharmacy around 1.6 km away. Officers found Baby with blood on her arms and legs, and she was reportedly incoherent and unable to answer questions.

Baby was initially charged in connection with Hari’s death. On September 8, prosecutors added a murder charge in Mathew’s death. She now faces two counts of first-degree murder and could receive 50 years to life in prison if convicted.

Baby appeared in Santa Clara County court for the first time on Thursday. She is scheduled to return on November 17, when she is expected to have an opportunity to enter a plea.

Authorities have said the motive remains under investigation. Reports of possible employment-related difficulties have circulated, but police have not confirmed any such connection.

Meanwhile, Kerala authorities, the Indian Embassy and the Malayali community in California are assisting the victims’ families in completing legal formalities and bringing their mortal remains to India for the final rites.