Burbank/Suspect In Custody—
A suspect is in custody in connection with the fatal stabbing of a Burbank teacher and seriously wounding her daughter early yesterday morning. Burbank Police say officers responded to the victims’ home in the 2800 block of North Brighton Street at around 6 am. Two adult female victims were discovered inside, suffering from stab wounds.
59-year-old Arti Varma died from her wounds shortly after arriving at the hospital. She was a teacher at Bret Harte Elementary in Burbank. Counseling and mental health support services are being provided for staff and students, according to a statement from Interim Burbank School Superintendent, Dr. Oscar Macias.
In that email statement, Macias also said:”…our thoughts remain with the Varma family and with the entire Bret Hart community during this incredibly difficult time. We are here to support you, with compassion and care as we grieve together.”
The second victim, Meera Varma, survived the attack. She is hospitalized in stable condition, according to a Burbank Police news release. The 25-year-old is reportedly a nationally recognized Mental Health Activist who has worked with leaders such as Oprah Winfrey, former President Joe Biden, Dr. Jill Biden, and former Vice President Kamala Harris.
Meanwhile, Burbank Police say the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Sergio Fraire, was arrested near the scene of the crime at a residence in the 500 block of East Palm Avenue last night. Also, they say, evidence related to the crime was recovered from there.
Fraire has been booked for murder and attempted murder. The motive, as well as a possible relationship between the suspect and the victims, is still under investigation.
