On October 14, our beloved Gaby — my cousin, my sister, and a pillar of our family — was tragically shot and murdered in our hometown. Sitting beside her, her brother Jesús was critically injured.

Gaby leaves behind a four-year-old child and a newborn just days old. She also leaves behind a legacy of public service and countless acts of kindness for the hometown she loved and fought for with all her heart.

After losing her father at a young age, Gaby stepped up as the breadwinner for her family. She put herself through school, built a name for herself in politics, and was driven by her desire to support her mother and siblings. She dedicated herself not only to her family, but to everyone around her.

This cowardly act has left her children without their mother, her brother in the hospital, and our family shattered.

For those who feel moved to help during this painful time, we have started a GoFundMe to support her children, help cover Jesús’s medical bills, and assist her mother during this difficult time.

They may have taken Gaby from us, but they can never erase the legacy she built. We love you, Gaby, and we promise to stand by your children. Rest in peace, sister.