Supporting the Family of Caitlin Stup

My name is Rachel Kirkland, and I am creating this fundraiser with the full knowledge and blessing of Caitlin’s mother, Rachel Stup. I have known Rachel and her family for many years, and I am doing this to help support them during an unimaginable loss.

On January 7, 2026, Caitlin Stup, just 25 years old, was tragically killed while riding a METRO bus in Houston. She was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire of a violent act that had nothing to do with her. Her life was taken far too soon.

Caitlin was deeply loved — by her family, her friends, and everyone who knew her. She worked hard, had a job she cared about, a loving boyfriend, and a wide circle of friends. She loved photography, cooking, and cats — the quiet joys that reflected her kind and creative spirit. She had a bright future ahead of her.

About Caitlin’s Family

Caitlin’s mother, Rachel Stup, is well known in the Manassas community, where she was a familiar and welcoming presence for many years as the manager of the Manassas Junction Starbucks. To countless neighbors, students, parents, and regular customers, Rachel was a constant — someone who remembered names, checked in on people, and helped make a daily stop feel like part of home.

Rachel’s children are graduates of Osbourn Park High School, and the Stup family has long been part of the fabric of the Manassas community. This loss is not only devastating for their family, but deeply felt by all who know them.

As the family grieves, they are also facing the sudden and overwhelming financial realities that follow such a loss. This fundraiser is meant to help ease that burden and allow them the space to mourn, remember, and honor Caitlin without added financial strain.

All funds raised will go directly to Caitlin’s family to assist with:

Funeral and memorial expenses

Immediate living and travel costs

Ongoing support during this heartbreaking time

If you are able to donate, thank you. If you’re not in a position to give, sharing this fundraiser is just as meaningful and deeply appreciated.

Please keep Caitlin’s family in your thoughts and respect their need for privacy as they grieve.

Caitlin mattered. Her life mattered. And her family deserves the care of the community that has known and loved them for so long.