Father Charged with Incest After Daughter’s Suicide Following Alleged Rape

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Makayla Settles, an 18-year-old who moved from North Carolina to California in July 2025 to live with her biological father, Stephen Chavez, has tragically died by suicide five months after an alleged sexual assault. According to reports, two days after arriving at Chavez’s home, Settles was hospitalized following the incident. A rape kit confirmed Chavez’s DNA, leading to his arrest and subsequent release on $250,000 bail.

Settles’ mother, Carolina Sandoval, described her daughter’s fear and distress in a call, stating, “It feels like I handed my daughter to the devil.” Settles returned to North Carolina emotionally distraught, attempting suicide on December 22, 2025, and was placed in a medically induced coma. She was declared brain dead a few days later.

Chavez has pleaded not guilty to charges including felony incest and providing alcohol to a minor. Prosecutors face challenges as Settles cannot testify, potentially affecting the trial’s outcome. The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office emphasized their commitment to prosecuting the case fully, seeking a prison sentence. Chavez is due back in court on May 19 for a preliminary hearing.

This case highlights the severe consequences of alleged abuse within families and underscores the emotional toll on victims, even after returning home.