Yang's six week old daughter, Mirabelle Thao-Lo died on March 17th from what the Sacramento coroner's office called ''extensive second,-third,-and fourth degree thermal injuries.'' Initially, Yang told authorities that she was holding the infant while working on the computer and blacked out. Yang, who had suffered seizures in the past, said that she woke up on the floor with the deceased baby next to her. Yang suggested that the infant's burns were likely caused by the space heater that was on the ground near the computer. However, according to the affidavit, when the paramedics arrived at the scene Yang did not appear to be disoriented, as would be expected immediately following a seizure. Furthermore, investigators noted that the space heater showed no signs of damage.
Authorities could not immediately determine the source of the burns on the infant's body but noted that her clothing and hair did not appear to be burned. However, according to Sacramento police detective Thomas Shrum, a pacifier was found inside the microwave.
During an investigation that spanned several months, investigators sought out cases in which comparable injuries existed, in an effort to establish the cause of death. Three similar cases were found in Ohio, Texas, and Virginia. In each case, the child's burns resulted from being placed in the microwave. ''This is rare. The injuries were obviously very unique,'' said Officer Laura Peck.
As a result of the investigative findings, Yang was arrested. According to the affidavit, when Yang was asked to explain the discrepancies in her story, she admitted that she had lied and suggested that she might have a split personality. Even after interviewing Yang's family, co-workers, pathologists, and government agencies, investigators have yet to find a motive for the murder.
Linda Parisi, Yang's court-appointed attorney however noted that there are ''psychological issues that will have to be investigated.'' Yang did not enter a plea during Thursday's court appearance. She was charged with murder with the finding of special circumstances for the torture and intent to kill.
Kang has three other young children who were removed from the home on March 17th. The children are now under the care of relatives.
