Girl's parents to be asked if they want death penalty

The parents of a five-year-old girl who was kidnapped and murdered are to be asked if they want the prosecution to seek the death penalty for the man accused of the crime.

Alejandro Avila, 27, faces charges of abducting, sexually assaulting and strangling Samantha Runnion in Orange County, California.

Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackackaus said he would meet with Samantha’s family and defence lawyers before making the death penalty decision.

‘‘After I review what they have to say with my staff and also review the evidence, then I’ll decide whether or not to pursue the death penalty,’’ he said.

Samantha’s mother, Erin, broke a long silence at the weekend and met well-wishers outside her home, where they have left flowers, candles, cards and toys.

‘‘You are truly wonderful to us,’’ she said, and warned: ‘‘Take care of your babies. Take care of each other’s babies.’’

Samantha was playing with a five-year-old friend just yards from her home when a man who said he was looking for a lost puppy carried her away kicking and screaming.