Preliminary Hearing Delayed for Man Charged in Death of 17-Year-Old T'neya Tovar

A preliminary hearing was delayed today in El Centro for the man accused of murdering 17-year-old T'neya Tovar.

Abraham Feinbloom, 51, of Salton City faces one count of murder with a weapons enhancement. He has pleaded not guilty.

The hearing was continued to Wednesday, Feb. 25, after Feinbloom obtained new legal counsel. Attorney Melanie Rowe, who previously represented him in 2019 when felony kidnapping charges against him were dropped, will now serve as his defense attorney. She did not appear in court today, prompting the delay.

The case dates back to Dec. 1, 2025, when Tovar’s family reported her missing. A flyer created by her mother quickly circulated on social media. The investigation was later taken over by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Imperial County Sheriff’s Department.

Authorities say Tovar was allegedly last seen at Feinbloom’s residence. Investigators searched the home multiple times. On Feb. 13, deputies and federal agents served a search warrant at the residence, where Feinbloom was arrested after reportedly attempting to flee.

If convicted, Feinbloom faces up to 50 years to life in prison. The case continues to draw community attention, including a vigil held this week in Salton City in honor of Tovar.