Family of Teen Who Died by Suicide After Alleged Rape by Father Demands Justice

Makayla Settles, 18, died by suicide after fleeing her father's home in California, where she says he raped her.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:18pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a torn, bloodstained piece of fabric or clothing against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the trauma of sexual assault.The family's fight for justice in this tragic case aims to honor the memory of a young woman and advocate for all survivors of sexual violence.Los Angeles Today

The devastated family of Makayla Settles, an 18-year-old North Carolina woman who died by suicide after allegedly being raped by her own father, is demanding justice. Settles moved to California in July to live with her father, Stephen Vincent Chavez, 41, who was later arrested and charged with incest, taking advantage of a position of trust, and providing alcohol to a minor. Settles' family claims a rape kit confirmed Chavez's DNA, but they fear the case may fall apart now that Settles is gone. The family plans to rally at the California courthouse where Chavez is set to appear for a pre-trial hearing on Tuesday.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of incest and sexual assault, especially when the victim is a minor. It also raises questions about the challenges of prosecuting such cases when the primary witness is no longer alive. The family's fight for justice shines a light on the struggles survivors face in coming forward and the need for stronger support systems and accountability.

The details

Settles, 18, moved to Moorpark, California in July to live with her father, Chavez, 41, who had promised her a car and college savings. However, two days later, Settles fled Chavez's home barefoot, barely able to walk, and with blood on her legs. Her uncle had to carry her to the hospital, where a rape kit allegedly confirmed the incestuous assault. Chavez was arrested and charged, but Settles later died by suicide in December, struggling with depression and mental health issues. Her family claims the Ventura County District Attorney's office told them the case was in danger of falling apart without Settles' testimony.

  • In July, Settles moved to California to live with her father.
  • Two days later, Settles fled her father's home and went to the hospital.
  • Chavez was arrested and charged in July.
  • Settles died by suicide in December.
  • Chavez is due in court for a pre-trial hearing on Tuesday.

The players

Makayla Settles

An 18-year-old North Carolina woman who died by suicide after allegedly being raped by her father.

Stephen Vincent Chavez

Settles' 41-year-old father, who was arrested and charged with incest, taking advantage of a position of trust, and providing alcohol to a minor.

Carolina Sandoval

Settles' mother.

Crystal Sandoval

Settles' grieving cousin who has been posting about the case on social media.

Tessa McCarty

The Ventura County Deputy District Attorney handling the case.

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What they’re saying

“He killed my daughter that night.”

— Carolina Sandoval, Settles' mother

“We're not only fighting for justice for Makayla but also for all of you women out there who have lived in fear to share their story. This fight is for women who grew up thinking it was their fault, who grew up thinking that they asked for it.”

— Crystal Sandoval, Settles' cousin

What’s next

Chavez is due in Ventura County court on Tuesday for a pre-trial hearing, where Settles' family plans to rally and demand justice.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the devastating impact of incest and sexual assault, especially on young victims. It highlights the challenges of prosecuting such cases and the urgent need for stronger support systems and accountability to protect survivors and ensure justice.