Grievers in city shine light for little girl

More than 50 people gathered Wednesday night in the parking lot of the Sands Motel for a candlelight vigil in memory of 2-year-old Liliana Rodriguez.

The girl's mother, Elizabeth Guerrero, 27, of Oklahoma City, expressed her gratitude toward all those who have helped her get through a difficult time in her life.

"I'm just trying to deal with it all,” Guerrero said. "I think I'll be OK. Having family out here helps a lot.”

Guerrero's mother, Rebecca Moore, 53, and aunt, Donna Adam, 55, both of Fort Wayne, Ind., were in town for the vigil. Even with all the support, Guerrero said she hasn't had time to really get her mind off of what happened.

"I've just been trying to deal with the funeral services, trying to fight for my kids, comply with all the regulations the court has for me to get them back,” Guerrero said.

Guerrero was able to see her two other children Wednesday and picked out a new apartment, a big step toward regaining custody of them.

"That was nice. I told them I love them,” Guerrero said, "and I'll see them soon.”

Liliana died Sunday as a result of injuries she suffered at the motel, 721 S Rockwell Ave., on Saturday during an alleged case of abuse.

Guerrero's boyfriend of two years, 32-year-old Herman Marzelo Vail Bailon, was arrested on a murder and child abuse complaint. Federal immigration officers said he is an illegal immigrant.

Guerrero has not spoken to Bailon since the incident and said she doesn't want to have any contact with him.

Guerrero was working at a fast food restaurant when her daughter was injured Saturday, but said she received a call from Bailon about 12:50 p.m. — the same time police reported someone called 911 about the incident.

Guerrero said she couldn't answer, but checked her voicemail and listened to a message left by Bailon. She couldn't understand him because "he was in a frantic,” so Guerrero said she called the motel's front desk and was informed about the situation.

Guerrero, 27, has a court date Monday to try and regain custody of her other two children, 1-year-old Herman Vail Jr. and 3-year-old Alejandra Rodriguez. Both children were put in protective custody because they were inside the room with Bailon and Liliana when the 2-year-old suffered her injuries, authorities said.