A 911 call brought police to a house on Vacation Lane in North Arlington July 15 after 21-year-old Michael Pahno told the operator he had just murdered his uncle's wife and cut off her head, police reports state.
The severed head of Maria Teresa Dela Cruz Escoto. 40, was found in a washbasin inside the house, according to a search warrant affidavit, not far from her body. Police have yet to report any motive for the killing, but the warrant issued for a search of the home stated investigators sought evidence of mental illness among Pahno's belongings.
"We have no motive at this time," said police spokesman Matt Martin.
THE MURDER WAS DISCOVERED around 2 p.m. in the quiet Cherrydale neighborhood of North Arlington. Circuit court documents reveal that officers drew their guns after reaching the scene and ordered anyone inside the home to come out with hands raised. Pahno emerged from the house in bloodied clothing and surrendered. His father-in-law, who was not named, was also inside and has since been taken into protective custody. Police would not comment on the reason for that measure, stating that the man is part of a sensitive investigation.
The home was cordoned off by police tape for the rest of the week. Neighbors are hesitant to talk about the killing, but many described Escoto as a kind-hearted woman.
The victim's husband, Nick Pahno, was in Greece when the murder occurred. He could not be reached for comment. According to Roberto Escoto of Alexandria, the victim's eldest son, Pahno had arrived at the home four days prior from Texas — he is a resident of South Carolina — and was searching for work.
Escoto was raised in Angeles City in the Philippines.
Pahno was charged with first degree murder. A judge ordered him held without bail. His trial is expected to begin in September.
This latest murder marks the third in Arlington for 2005. The entire year of 2004 saw only one. Yet at the same time, police statistics show that crime is at its lowest level in the county since 1962.