Close Friend of Murdered Texas Mother Regrets Missing Final Call Before Daylight Stabbing

A close friend of the Texas mother who was fatally stabbed in broad daylight has expressed deep regret over missing a phone call from her moments before the tragic attack. According to the Del Rio Police Department, 32-year-old Caroline Peña died at a hospital several hours after the stabbing that occurred around 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, on East 10th Street.

Citing surveillance footage and witness interviews, authorities identified and arrested sisters Kitty Mia Diaz, 21, and Amaya “Cookie” Diaz, 19, along with Kyandra Renee Faz, 21, in connection with Peña’s death. All three women have been charged with murder. It remains unclear whether any of the suspects have entered pleas or retained attorneys to speak on their behalf.

While investigators continue to determine a possible motive for the killing, Peña’s best friend is struggling to cope with the loss of the mother of five. She told local news station KENS 5 that she missed a call from Peña that morning, explaining that the two women typically spoke every day to check in with each other.

“I feel like if I would have answered that call, honestly I would have been there with her,” Christina Salinas said. “It wouldn’t have gotten like that.”

Salinas recounted seeing Peña before she was airlifted to the hospital, describing the heartbreaking final moments before her friend was taken away. “It’s like a part of me got ripped out and that’s something I’m not going to get back,” Salinas told the news station. “No matter how much justice is being served, I still don’t have my friend here alive with me.”

Another friend of Peña said she remains shaken by the brazen nature of the daylight attack. “This wasn’t something that happened in a back alley,” Zelina Ochoa told KENS 5. “This happened at the corner near Sonic on one of our busiest roads in broad daylight.”

Ochoa explained that she and Peña became mothers as teenagers and supported each other through those challenging early years. She described Peña as an incredibly giving person. “If you needed something and she had it, even if it was her last, she’d give it to you,” Ochoa told KENS 5.

A GoFundMe campaign created to help support Peña’s family has raised more than $5,000 as of Tuesday, June 30. The outpouring of support reflects the impact Peña had on her community and the sympathy felt for her grieving family.

The three suspects were arrested shortly after the incident. Police located and detained Kitty Mia Diaz and Amaya “Cookie” Diaz around 4 p.m. Thursday without incident. Kyandra Renee Faz was apprehended a short time later. All three were transported to the Del Rio Police Department for processing before being moved to the GEO Correctional Facility.

The investigation remains active, and authorities have not yet disclosed a clear motive for the attack. They have also not ruled out the possibility of additional individuals being involved, noting that more charges could be filed as evidence continues to be gathered.

For Peña’s friends and family, the grief is compounded by the public nature of the attack and the haunting questions about what might have been different. Salinas’ regret over missing that final call represents the kind of “what if” that often haunts loved ones after sudden, violent losses.

The community of Del Rio has been shaken by the incident, with many residents expressing disbelief that such violence could occur in broad daylight on a busy street. The fact that the attack happened in a highly visible location has only intensified the shock and calls for justice.

Peña’s friends have emphasized her positive qualities and the support she provided to others. Ochoa’s description of their shared experiences as young mothers highlights the close bond they formed and the mutual support that helped them navigate early parenthood.

The GoFundMe campaign has provided some practical assistance to Peña’s family as they face the difficult task of arranging her funeral and caring for her five children. The rapid fundraising reflects the community’s desire to help during this tragic time.

As the legal process moves forward, the three suspects will face murder charges that could result in significant prison sentences if convicted. The case will likely draw continued attention as more details emerge about the circumstances leading to the fatal confrontation.

The release of information about the investigation has been gradual, with authorities carefully managing details while the case is active. This approach aims to protect the integrity of the legal proceedings while keeping the public informed.

For Salinas, the pain of losing her best friend is compounded by the guilt of missing that final call. Her words reflect the universal human experience of wondering if different actions could have changed a tragic outcome.

The broader community response has included both grief for Peña and her family and calls for increased attention to public safety in the area. The brazen nature of the attack in a busy location has left many residents feeling vulnerable.

Peña’s friends have made it clear that they want her remembered for how she lived — as a devoted mother, loyal friend, and generous person who helped others whenever she could. Their tributes paint a picture of a woman who touched many lives despite facing her own challenges.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Every detail could help provide a clearer picture of what happened and ensure justice is served for Peña and her family.

The case serves as a tragic reminder of how quickly violence can erupt in everyday situations. The loss of a mother of five has created a significant void in her family and community that will be felt for years to come.

Support for Peña’s family continues to grow through the GoFundMe campaign and other community efforts. These acts of kindness reflect the compassion and solidarity that often emerge in response to such heartbreaking events.

The legal proceedings against the three suspects will likely be lengthy and complex. The court system will need to carefully examine all evidence and testimony to determine appropriate outcomes.

For now, the focus remains on supporting Peña’s children and other family members as they begin the difficult process of grieving and adjusting to life without her. The community’s continued support will be crucial during this challenging time.

The story of Caroline Peña’s life and tragic death has touched many beyond her immediate circle. Her friends’ descriptions of her generosity and caring nature have helped paint a fuller picture of the person behind the headlines.

As the case moves through the justice system, the public’s attention will likely remain focused on developments and the ongoing support for Peña’s family. The hope is that justice will be served and that lessons can be learned to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.