A Bakersfield, California man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he shot and killed his wife inside their home while their teenage son witnessed the violence.
Police say 37-year-old Manuel Leal Robles is charged with first-degree murder, willful cruelty to a child, and inflicting corporal injury on a spouse following the fatal shooting of his wife, Ana Karen Robles.
According to investigators, the couple had been drinking when an argument broke out. During questioning, Robles told police he believed his wife had been unfaithful. Officers say that belief became central to his explanation of what happened next.
Court records state that Robles initially fired a weapon at a safe inside the home before retrieving an AR-15-style rifle and fatally shooting his wife. Their 15-year-old son was present and witnessed the shooting, police say.
Body camera footage captured Robles expressing immediate regret after the shooting. He repeatedly told officers, “I f—ed up,” and stated that he believed his wife had cheated on him. He reportedly said he could have forgiven her but did not, adding that she did not deserve to die.
Investigators say that after the shooting, Robles attempted to take his own life, but his son intervened and disarmed him, preventing further violence. Robles then fled the home in a pickup truck.
Police later located him at a nearby shopping center after he crashed the vehicle. Officers say Robles made additional incriminating statements during his arrest.
Authorities have also noted that the case involves several layers beyond the shooting itself, including alcohol use, domestic conflict, and the presence of a firearm during a volatile argument. Legal observers point out that cases involving alleged infidelity often reveal deeper patterns of instability and control rather than a single triggering event.
Robles is currently being held without bail at the Lerdo Justice Facility. His next court appearance is scheduled for February 11. Prosecutors are continuing to review evidence as the case moves forward.
The couple’s son is now in the care of authorities and receiving support following the traumatic events. Officials have not released any statements from family members.
