Indianapolis Dad Charged with Killing Girl, Ex Helped Cover It Up

INDIANAPOLIS — Two people are now charged in the death of 5-year-old Zara Arnold.

Zachary Arnold, 41, faces a murder charge. He first told police Zara fell down the stairs, but later admitted to choking her during an argument on Sunday. She was found dead Monday inside a home on North Lasalle Street.

Arnold has a history of child abuse, molestation, and rape accusations involving Zara’s mother. Court documents say Zara had been abused many times before.

Andrea Lopez-Figueroa, 30, Arnold’s ex-girlfriend, is charged with helping him cover up the crime and not calling 911. Police say she watched the attack happen during a video call and took a screenshot while Arnold held Zara down and choked her. She later told investigators she saw foam coming from Zara’s mouth and that the girl was kicking and gasping.

Lopez-Figueroa admitted Arnold had choked Zara more than ten times before and said she was afraid to call the police.

Police found several videos on her phone that showed Arnold abusing Zara, including on the day she died.

Prosecutors say they’ll seek life in prison without parole for Arnold. More people could face charges for failing to report the abuse.