Authorities continued on Monday to search Valley Springs on Monday for a man they said killed an 8-year-old girl at a house on Rippon Road, in Calaveras County near Sacramento.
At a Sunday news conference, investigators took fingerprints and what they believe to be DNA evidence from the crime scene, according to NBC affiliate KCRA.
On Saturday, police said a 12-year-old boy found an intruder in his home, and when he went to check on his sister, Leila Fowler, he found she had been stabbed. The third-grader was pronounced dead at the hospital. An autopsy is planned for Monday.
The intruder got away.
Several law enforcement agencies are searching the area for a man described as being white or Hispanic with longer gray hair. He is 6 feet tall, with a muscular build and was last seen wearing a black long-sleeved shirt and blue pants.
Police said the man is considered armed and dangerous.
Residents in the area were being warned via reverse 911 and Nixle mass notifications systems to lock their doors and report suspicious activity.
Parents at Leila's school are asking for extra patrols at the bus stops, to keep children safe.
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Tuesday, with the location and time pending.
People who know the family told KCRA 3 that Leila was one of seven children, and that her parents were very involved with the community and Little League.
If anyone sees a person matching the description, they are asked to call 911 or the Sheriff's Office immediately. Tips can also be provided to the 24-hour tip line at 209-754-6030.
The Calaveras County sheriff and the District Attorney's Office are investigating.
Valley Springs is a town of about 3,500 some 60 miles southeast of Sacramento.
Photo Credit: KCRA