Colorado Woman Convicted of Murdering Two Children and Concealing Their Remains

In a heartbreaking case that has gripped the Pueblo community, 39-year-old Corena Minjarez was recently convicted of murdering two young children and hiding their bodies. The children, ages three and five at the time they were last seen in 2018, were the boyfriend’s children. Her actions have left a community searching for answers and justice more than five years after the chilling disappearances.

Gruesome Discovery in Pueblo Storage Unit and Abandoned Car

The investigation began in early 2024 after a tip led authorities to a storage unit facility in Pueblo. On January 22, law enforcement officers found the remains of three-year-old Yesenia Dominguez encased in concrete within a metal container at the storage unit. DNA testing confirmed her identity.

Just weeks later, on February 6, the remains of five-year-old Jesus Dominguez Jr. were discovered stuffed inside a suitcase in the trunk of a car abandoned at a scrapyard. The vehicle was registered to Minjarez, linking her firmly to the crimes.

Trial Reveals Devastating Details

During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence showing Minjarez’s involvement in the murders and efforts to conceal the bodies. Records indicated that Minjarez purchased the concrete used to encase Yesenia’s remains, and the storage unit was rented under her name.

The defense argued that Minjarez acted out of fear and love for her boyfriend, whose abusive behavior allegedly led to the tragic deaths. Despite this, the jury found her guilty of two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of abuse of a corpse.

Sentencing and Legal Consequences

On August 27, Minjarez was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder charges. She also received 120 days for abuse-of-corpse counts, with all sentences running concurrently. This sentence reflects the court’s firm stance on violent crimes against children and the severe violation of trust she committed.

Meanwhile, the children’s father, Jesus Dominguez Sr., pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, tampering with a deceased human body, and abuse of a corpse. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 12, 2025.

Community Response and Unanswered Questions

The Pueblo community remains deeply affected by the case. Both neighbors and officials express sorrow over the loss of the children and outrage at the nature of the crimes. The fact that neither child had ever been reported missing adds to the haunting sense of tragedy and betrayal.

Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any signs of abuse or unexplained disappearances promptly to prevent similar tragedies.

Reflecting on Child Safety and Justice

This case draws attention to the critical need for protecting children from harm and ensuring that those entrusted with their care are held accountable. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and child welfare systems in tracking and intervening in potentially dangerous family situations.

As Minjarez begins her life sentence, the community hopes that justice for Yesenia and Jesus brings some measure of closure and serves as a warning against neglect and violence.