BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — The Bakersfield couple accused of torturing and killing their daughter, Genesis Mata, are set to appear in court Thursday for a readiness hearing.

FILE (KBAK/KBFX){p}{/p}{p}{/p}

Mata Junior and Graciela Bustamonte face seven felony charges, including murder, child cruelty, and torture, in connection with the death of 8-year-old Genesis Mata in August.

A death investigation is underway after a body was discovered inside the La Quinta Inn in central Bakersfield, according to the Bakersfield Police Department. This is a photo of the crime scene on August 2, 2025. PHOTO: KBAK/KBFX

A death investigation is underway after a body was discovered inside the La Quinta Inn in central Bakersfield, according to the Bakersfield Police Department. This is a photo of the crime scene on August 2, 2025. PHOTO: KBAK/KBFX

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Genesis was Mata Junior’s daughter and Bustamonte’s stepdaughter. If convicted, the couple could face the death penalty.