By Redaccion
redaccion@latinocc.com
District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced Thursday that Zarbab Ali, 28, of Hawthorne, will stand trial for the first-degree murder of Rachel Castillo, a Simi Valley resident.
Following a two-day preliminary hearing, Ventura County Superior Court Judge Paul Feldman ruled there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. In addition to the murder charge, Feldman upheld multiple special allegations, including the use of a deadly weapon, murder for financial gain and murder committed by means of lying in wait.
Ali also faces an additional charge of unlawful mutilation, disinterment, or engaging in sexual contact with a human corpse.
“This was a senseless and brutal killing that shocked our community,” Nasarenko said. “We remain committed to securing justice for Rachel Castillo and her loved ones in the wake of this horrific crime.”
On Nov. 10, 2022, Castillo’s sister called 911 after returning to their shared Simi Valley apartment and finding signs of a violent struggle. Although Castillo was missing, her personal belongings—including her phone, car keys and vehicle—were left behind.
Three days later, on Nov. 13, 2022, her body was discovered in a remote area of the Antelope Valley.
After a detailed investigation by the Simi Valley Police Department’s Detective Bureau, Ali was arrested later that same day at his parents’ home in Victorville.
The case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorney David Russell of the Major Crimes Homicide Unit.
“Our office will present the full scope of evidence in pursuit of justice,” Russell said. “We are grateful to the detectives, officers and special agents who worked tirelessly on this case.”
Ali is scheduled to return to court for a formal arraignment on April 23, 2025, at 9 a.m. in Courtroom 12 of the Ventura County Superior Court.
