Man charged with murder of partner in Costa Mesa

It's unclear what the relationship is between the man and woman.

COSTA MESA, Calif. - A man has been charged in connection with the stabbing death of his partner in Costa Mesa, according to police.

Martin Laragarcia, 28, was charged on Tuesday with murder, with a sentencing enhancement for the personal use of a deadly weapon.

Officers responded to the couple's apartment in the 500 block of Victoria Street around 8 p.m., police said.

The woman, Denise Avila, 29, suffered several stab wounds. She died at the scene.

Laragarcia was seen driving away from the scene before police arrived, but was arrested hours later when he returned to the apartment.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with additional information is asked to please contact Detective Eloisa Peralta at 714-754-5039.