Six years after the tragic death of Aramazd “Piqui” Andressian, Jr., a young boy who was killed by his father during a custody dispute, a law inspired by his memory is now on its way to the governor’s desk. Piqui’s mother, Ana Estevez, along with supporters, gathered at a press event to urge Governor Gavin Newsom to sign the legislation, which was recently approved by the California Legislature.
Aramazd Andressian Sr. committed the heinous act when his son Piqui was just five years old. In 2017, he took the young boy to Disneyland before transporting him to Lake Cachuma in Santa Barbara County, where he tragically smothered him. Following Piqui’s disappearance, Los Angeles County investigators conducted an extensive search for the child. Eventually, Andressian was apprehended in Las Vegas and brought back to Los Angeles County to face a murder trial. He ultimately pleaded guilty and is now serving a 25-years-to-life sentence in a state prison.
The proposed law, “Piqui’s Law,” aims to protect children and prevent such tragic incidents in the future. Its passage through the Legislature reflects the collective efforts of those determined to honor Piqui’s memory by advocating for measures that safeguard children from harm and tragedy. As it now awaits Governor Newsom’s signature, supporters hope it will become a lasting tribute to the young boy whose life was tragically cut short.