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Stepfather Charged with Killing 11-Year-Old Stepdaughter, Attacking Wife
Prosecutors say the girl tried to save her mother's life before being fatally stabbed.
Published on Mar. 5, 2026
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Tanh Thien Tran, 81, is on trial for the killing of his 11-year-old stepdaughter, Anh Yen Nguyen Duong, and the attempted killing of his wife, San Nguyen, during a violent attack at their home in Garden Grove, California. Prosecutors say the girl tried to protect her mother from the stabbing attack, telling first responders "My dad tried to kill me" before succumbing to her injuries.
Why it matters
The case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the bravery of a child who tried to intervene to save her mother's life. It also raises questions about the dynamics of the family relationship and the suspected motive of the stepfather's jealousy and anger.
The details
According to prosecutors, Tran attacked his wife San Nguyen with a BB gun and then stabbed her repeatedly in their home. When the couple's 11-year-old stepdaughter Anh Yen Nguyen Duong tried to intervene, Tran allegedly threw her to the ground and continued stabbing her mother. The mother was able to escape, but the girl died from her injuries. Tran then allegedly tried to take his own life but only suffered superficial wounds.
- The attack occurred on August 29, 2018 at the family's home in Garden Grove, California.
- The trial for Tanh Thien Tran began on March 5, 2026.
The players
Tanh Thien Tran
An 81-year-old man charged with killing his 11-year-old stepdaughter and attempting to kill his wife.
Anh Yen Nguyen Duong
The 11-year-old stepdaughter of Tanh Thien Tran who was killed while trying to protect her mother.
San Nguyen
The wife of Tanh Thien Tran who was attacked but escaped the home.
What they’re saying
“'My dad tried to kill me,'”
— Anh Yen Nguyen Duong (ocregister.com)
“'She literally gave her life trying to save her mother's life. She literally died because she tried and succeeded in saving her mom's life.'”
— Devin Campbell, Deputy District Attorney (ocregister.com)
What’s next
The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Tanh Thien Tran to be released on bail during the trial.
The takeaway
This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the bravery of children who try to protect their parents. It raises important questions about family dynamics, mental health, and the need for greater support and resources to prevent such horrific acts of violence.
