Family of mother, grandfather killed in Fresno County plead for 25-year-old to turn himself in

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The search is on for a man who is accused of killing his mother and his grandfather.

Friday, family members made a public plea for him to turn himself into law enforcement.

Investigators say several tips have come in, but they still haven't been able to track down the accused killer.

The Fresno County Sheriff's Office says it is working with other agencies in southern California where the suspect is known to frequent.

"I know that you are frightened, scared and have no idea what's in front of you," said Robert Sayles, the suspect's uncle.

The family of Rahmad Parke spoke directly to him Friday morning, asking him to turn himself in.

"Rahmad, we do forgive you, at least I do," said his aunt Gloria Sayles.

The Fresno County Sheriff's Office believes Parke is responsible for killing his mother Melba Abdalaziz, 58, and his grandfather Mel Abdalaziz, 90, last week.

Deputies responded to a home on Tulare and Peach on January 6.

There, they found Mel and Melba dead.

Investigators revealed Parke was living at the multi-unit home, which is owned by the family.

For now, detectives are not releasing information about how the two were killed, but family members suggested Parke may have a mental illness.

"We still love our brother Rahmad. The reality of the matter is that mental illness is truly real," said Rahmad's sister, and Melba's daughter, Ahmonda Parke.

The sheriff disclosed very few details but says Rahmad Parke has some prior criminal history, out of the area, from many years ago.

Friday, Mel's daughter and Melba's daughter urged Parke to turn himself in, while also reflecting on the loved ones they've lost.

"She's always been happy, loving, kind sweet. Her heart is bigger than anything I've ever known and she got that from her dad," said Ahmonda Parke.

Melba, the generous mother of three who would literally give the shoes off her feet, moved in with her sister and brother-in-law to help take care of their father, who had a stroke last year.

Gloria Sayles said her dad's condition had immensely improved, going from hospice to being able to walk again with the help of a walker.

Mel, a father of six and grandfather of dozens, was a pastor of 70 years in the Central Valley and beyond.

"Melba, my sister, and Mel, my dad, were very powerful, wonderful people," said Gloria Sayles.

Investigators said Parke may be transient and is known to frequent the city of Fresno and Los Angeles County.

The sheriff's office said if you see Parke, call 911 and do not approach him.

Valley Crime Stoppers has increased the reward to $5,000 for information leading to Parke's arrest.

You can submit a tip by calling 559-498-7867. You can remain anonymous.