CAMARILLO, California — Tomoko Hoetzlein spent her final days doing everything a mother could do to save her son.
She called the hospital. She contacted his caseworker. She reported the situation to law enforcement.
None of it was enough to keep her alive.
A Discovery No One Expected
On June 3, 2022, a man searching a dumpster near Townsite Promenade for recyclables made a horrifying discovery — human remains.
Ventura County detectives and the Medical Examiner’s office confirmed the body parts belonged to a woman. That woman was later identified as Tomoko Hoetzlein, 62.
Her son, David Hoetzlein, 29, had strangled and killed her inside their shared Camarillo home before dismembering her body and disposing of her remains in the dumpster outside their apartment.
A System That Failed Her
Just days before the killing, David had been released from Vista del Mar psychiatric hospital — a decision his family and his own psychiatrist had objected to.
According to a federal lawsuit later filed by David’s sister, Mao Cardenas, the facility released David on May 31, 2022, with what the family alleged was an incorrect diagnosis and prescription.
Tomoko had seen the warning signs. She tried to have David placed on a mental health hold after he allegedly stole her car and battered her.
Deputies determined he did not meet the requirements for a hold.
Three days later, she was dead.
The Verdict
On Aug. 13, 2026, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office announced that David Hoetzlein was found not guilty by reason of insanity.
Two independent doctors evaluated him and both concluded he met the legal standard — that a severe mental disorder had prevented him from having the mental capacity to be held criminally responsible at the time of the killing.
Prosecutors did not object to those findings.
“Tomoko Hoetzlein was a devoted mother who did everything in her power to get her son the mental health treatment he desperately needed,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Erin Meister. “Tragically, she lost her life while trying to help him.”
What Happens Next
Hoetzlein remains in custody. He is due back in court on Aug. 27, where he is expected to be committed to a maximum-security state mental hospital for treatment.
He could remain confined there for the rest of his life.
The case has renewed painful questions about gaps in the mental health system — and what happens to families left navigating it alone, with no good options and no one to call.
What do you think about the not guilty by reason of insanity verdict in this case? Share your thoughts in the comments — this is a conversation that needs to be heard.