Mariana Yepez, once lauded for building a successful L.A. taco stand empire, now finds herself accused of a far darker crime: conspiracy to commit murder. Yepez, the co-owner of the Ricos Tacos Naomi chain, is charged in connection with the death of her employee, Soledad Lopez. The grim discovery of Lopez’s body, found burned and concealed in the trunk of a car at a South L.A. tow yard in September 2025, has cast a shadow over the once-popular eateries.
The Rise and Fall of a Taco Tycoon
Humble Beginnings to Culinary Success
Mariana Yepez’s journey in the Los Angeles food scene began from humble roots. Originally from Sonora, Mexico, Yepez and her husband worked tirelessly in various food trucks and restaurants before launching their own venture in 2018. Named after their daughter, Ricos Tacos Naomi quickly expanded, growing to nearly a dozen locations across Los Angeles, from Long Beach to the Antelope Valley. The stands garnered praise from food critics for their authentic offerings, such as fatty cabeza and sizzling al pastor.
Allegations of a Deadly Plot
The narrative took a grim turn with the discovery of Soledad Lopez’s body on September 7, 2025. Lopez, 47, was last seen leaving work with a coworker, Sandra Romo Diaz. Surveillance footage showed the pair entering a warehouse connected to the business. Lopez never emerged. Prosecutors allege that Diaz was seen leaving the warehouse with gas canisters and then driving Lopez’s vehicle. Lopez’s charred remains were found two days later in the trunk of her Honda Civic at a South L.A. tow yard. The extreme fire damage to the body made it impossible for the coroner to determine the exact cause of death, but the death was officially ruled a homicide.
Legal Entanglements and Immigration Issues
In addition to Yepez, Sandra Romo Diaz has been arrested and charged with murder. Another employee, Oscar Villafranca, also faces conspiracy to commit murder charges. However, Villafranca reportedly left the United States in September 2025, shortly after Lopez’s death, and remains a fugitive with extradition proceedings underway. Yepez herself was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in September 2025, before being transferred to county custody. Her lawyer has denied any wrongdoing, stating that evidence points to her innocence.
Potential Financial Motive
Prosecutors have suggested a financial motive behind the alleged conspiracy. According to reports, an earlier car accident in January 2025, in which Yepez, Diaz, and Lopez were involved, resulted in a settlement of approximately $11,500. Prosecutors claim that Yepez endorsed the settlement, but the funds were never paid out to Lopez.
FAQ: People Also Ask
What is Ricos Tacos Naomi?
Ricos Tacos Naomi is a chain of popular taco stands in the Los Angeles area, known for its diverse menu including cabeza and al pastor.
Who is Mariana Yepez?
Mariana Yepez is the co-owner of the Ricos Tacos Naomi chain. She is accused of conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the death of an employee, Soledad Lopez.
When was Soledad Lopez’s body discovered?
Soledad Lopez’s body was discovered burned in the trunk of a car in a South L.A. tow yard in September 2025.
Are there other employees charged in the case?
Yes, two other employees of Ricos Tacos Naomi are charged. Sandra Romo Diaz faces murder charges, and Oscar Villafranca faces conspiracy to commit murder charges.
What is the suspected motive for the crime?
Prosecutors have suggested a financial dispute stemming from a car accident settlement as a potential motive.
