WALNUT CREEK, CA – In a quiet neighborhood of Walnut Creek, tragedy struck when a mother and her elderly mother were found dead, allegedly at the hands of the woman’s estranged husband. The shocking incident has left the community in mourning and sparked a rally of support for the couple’s young daughters.
Lucy Chen, a longtime family friend, is devastated by the loss of her friend, Lin Lin Guo, 41, and Guo’s mother, Cheng, 70. The two women were reportedly killed in a violent attack, leaving behind Guo’s twin eight-year-old daughters, who are now in foster care. The future care of the girls remains uncertain.
Authorities have charged 43-year-old Howard Wong with two counts of murder. Police allege Wong attacked his wife and mother-in-law before attempting to mislead investigators by claiming an intruder was responsible. This horrific event unfolded at the family’s home on Calobra Court.
Chen recalls her friend’s struggles in her marriage, noting that Guo had expressed unhappiness and a desire to leave her husband. Records indicate that Wong had filed for divorce last year but later withdrew the case. In August 2024, authorities say Wong made threats against Guo, escalating tensions within the family.
The situation took another turn when Wong’s girlfriend was charged as an accessory and with burglary, accused of destroying evidence to protect him. As legal proceedings continue, Chen focuses on honoring the memory of the victims.
“Lin and her mother were women of grace, strength, and love,” Chen said, emphasizing Guo’s aspirations to become a beautician to help boost women’s confidence despite her own struggles.
Chen has launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses and to support the girls left behind. She hopes to send a message to others facing similar situations, reminding them they are not alone.
The community remains in shock, grappling with the senseless loss while rallying to support the young girls whose lives have been irrevocably changed.