BAKERSFIELD, CA (KUZZ) — A Bakersfield couple accused of torture and murder are set to appear in court Thursday, December 11.

A readiness hearing is scheduled for Raya Mata, Jr., 31, and Graciela Bustamonte, 27, following the death August 2, 2025, of Mata’s daughter Genesis Mata, 8. The child’s tortured remains were discovered inside a bathtub in a guest room at La Quinta Inn on Riverside Drive.

The couple have each pleaded not guilty to seven felony charges including murder, child cruelty, and torture, and could face the death penalty.