Kelli Elizabeth Yingling, a 37-year-old woman in California, was charged in connection with the death of her mother, Peggi Yingling, after authorities found her body wrapped in a plastic bag inside a closet of their home. Yingling pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and elder abuse charges. She had previously been convicted of elder abuse and was on felony probation at the time of her mother’s death. Her attorney stated that she is innocent until proven guilty and emphasized the need to thoroughly investigate the case.
The victim’s body was discovered after a neighbor requested a welfare check when they had not seen Peggi Yingling in weeks. Authorities found her body inside a locked closet and reported that she had been dead for an extended period of time. An autopsy revealed that the victim had been strangled. Kelli Yingling’s interview with detectives allegedly implicated her in her mother’s murder. The Yinglings’ neighborhood was described as quiet, despite police making previous appearances at the victim’s home.
Residents in the neighborhood described Peggi Yingling as introverted, occasionally seeking help from neighbors for rides to the store and doctor’s appointments. Kelli Yingling had been in custody since May 7 for a police pursuit on May 2, before the discovery of her mother’s body. She had previously been convicted of elder abuse in 2023 in a case involving her mother. The case has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding Peggi Yingling’s death and the relationship between mother and daughter.
Prosecutors are pursuing first-degree murder charges against Kelli Yingling, who remains in custody at King County Jail. Her attorney and investigators are working to gather more information and details to fully understand the case. The quiet neighborhood where the Yinglings lived has been shocked by the events, with residents expressing surprise at the accusations against Kelli Yingling. The case highlights the tragic outcome of domestic disputes and the importance of seeking help and support when dealing with difficult family relationships.
The Hanford Police Department continues to investigate the case, interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence to build a strong prosecution. The community is grappling with the loss of Peggi Yingling and the circumstances surrounding her death. The case serves as a reminder of the complexities of family dynamics and the consequences of unresolved conflicts. As the legal process unfolds, further details may emerge about the events leading up to Peggi Yingling’s tragic death, shedding light on the motivations and actions of Kelli Yingling. The case has sparked conversations about elder abuse and the need for vigilance in caring for vulnerable individuals.
