Suspect Charged in Murder of Michaela Garecht

HAYWARD, Calif., December 21, 2020— After more than 30-years of exhaustive and determined investigative work, today the Hayward Police Department can announce 59-year David Misch has been charged in the murder of Michaela Garecht.  On November 19, 1988, nine-year-old Michaela was kidnapped from the Rainbow Market located on Mission Boulevard in South Hayward. Several witnesses provided a description of the suspect who was seen pulling Michaela into his vehicle.  It is a tragic story that has gripped the Bay Area for decades now brought to a close by new facts in the case.

This investigation experienced a breakthrough earlier this year when fingerprints from the scene were matched to the suspect. Misch has not been a threat to society as he has been in State Prison since 1989 for a murder. He also is awaiting trial for a double murder committed in Fremont in 1986.

The Hayward Police Department would like to thank the FBI, Fremont Police Department, Alameda County Sheriff’s Office and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for their partnership, cooperation and assistance in this investigation.

Additionally, we want to commend the numerous men and women in the Hayward Police Department who have spent thousands of hours, pouring their heart and soul into bringing justice to Michaela’s family. This was an ongoing team effort.

Chief Toney Chaplin stated, “The Hayward Police Department has never stopped seeking justice for Michaela and her family. I have a lot of pride in our organization and am grateful for the men and women in the building who have shown their perseverance and tenacity to bringing closure to Michaela’s family. We have always kept Michaela at the forefront of our efforts and understand important questions remain unanswered, but we are happy to provide some peace to Michaela’s family and the Hayward community.”