83-year-old Rialto slaying victim identified, suspect sought

Police have identified an 83-year-old Rialto woman they say was brutally killed inside her ransacked home.

Neighbors found longtime Rialto resident Elizabeth Benson dead in her East Huff Street home about 9:10 a.m Friday. She was last seen alive by a neighbor in her front yard about 9:30 p.m. Thursday, said Rialto police Lt. Joe Cirilo.

"This was a very heinous crime by a person who had very little disregard for this elderly person," Cirilo said. "What kind of person would create a crime like this? It was n 83-year-old woman who didn't have a chance."

The slaying has left the tight-knit neighborhood in shock. Benson had lived in her home for 40 years, said neighbors. Everyone looked out for one another.

Homicide investigators spent all night processing an extensive crime scene, and the last of the investigators left Benson's residence about 9 a.m. today, Cirilo said.

No suspects have been identified, but police are developing theories as to motive.

"Obviously the suspect went there for a purpose. What that purpose is we just don't know yet," Cirilo said. "We do know there was some intention for the suspect to go in there."

A neighbor noticed the light still on in Benson's home Friday morning and the newspaper still in her driveway. The neighbor had a key to Benson's home and let herself in. She found Benson's lifeless body and called 911.

Benson's daughter and neighbors described Benson as a strong and independent woman who  cut her own lawn and changed the oil in her vehicle herself.

"She was very independent," Cirilo said.

He said crimes against the elderly and children always strike an emotional chord.

"When it comes to children and the elderly, it really hits home, because we all have grandparents," Cirilo said. "Nobody deserves to go out in this fashion. This was a terrible, terrible crime."

Police are urging anyone with information to call them at (909) 820-2550 or the WE-TIP hotline at (800) 78-CRIME.