Two teens named persons of interest in Washington City stabbing

SALT LAKE CITY -- Authorities are actively seeking two teenagers, 17-year-old Abigael Paige Flanagan and Mihaela Gabriela Sorescu, as persons of interest in the fatal stabbing of a 47-year-old woman from California in Washington City. The two teens were visiting Utah with the victim when the incident occurred.

The Washington City Police Department reported that investigators discovered the rental car that the trio used, abandoned in California on Sunday morning around 10 a.m. MDT. It is believed that Flanagan and Sorescu were last seen in Bellflower, California, where they are still thought to be located.

Police have clarified that there were no indicators of forced entry into the vacation home where the three women were residing. The incident raised significant concerns after the group had checked in at the property from March 20 to March 23 while visiting national parks in Utah and Arizona.

Although Flanagan and Sorescu are not considered suspects in the woman's death, law enforcement is eager to engage with them to gain insight into the events preceding the tragic incident. Their cooperation could be crucial in piecing together what happened during their stay.

To aid in locating the teens, both federal and California law enforcement agencies are collaborating with the Washington City police. The investigation continues as authorities seek to clarify the circumstances surrounding the woman's death.