Families of Victims Speak Out on Tragic Murders

The families of two women and a toddler who were murdered, allegedly by illegal immigrants, have shared their grief and the profound impact of their loss.

“Our family is experiencing a heartbreaking loss that cannot be described in words,” Marisa Jimenez expressed. They have launched a fundraising campaign to cover funeral and memorial costs. “The tragic circumstances surrounding this tragedy have torn apart our family.”

As of Saturday morning, over $26,000 has been raised toward the $30,000 goal from 544 donors.

Joaquín Escoto, 28, is currently held without bail, facing three counts of murder for the stabbing deaths of 23-year-old Fabiola Gonzalez, 54-year-old Sylvia Nuñez, and her toddler grandson, Mateo Gonzalez. Authorities revealed that Escoto had a child with one of the victims.

On Thursday morning, police responded to a call about a domestic disturbance at a home near Monterey and Thrasher streets in Modesto. Upon arrival, they found Gonzalez deceased with multiple stab wounds. Later, Nuñez and Mateo were discovered dead from similar injuries.

Notably, a 4-year-old child was found uninjured in the home and was taken to the hospital for evaluation.

Escoto was eventually located hiding in a nearby residence and was taken into custody without incident. As of yet, police have not established a clear motive for the crimes.

In addition to the murder charges, Escoto faces weapon-related charges and has an outstanding warrant stemming from a prior DUI arrest.

The California Post reported that the state’s controversial sanctuary law hindered federal officials from deporting Escoto after his earlier DUI arrest in June. This individual, originally from Jalisco, Mexico, had previously been deported three times and had multiple drunk driving arrests.

Jimenez remembered Nuñez as a kind and loving grandmother who profoundly impacted everyone around her. Her family emphasized her strength and devotion.

Gonzalez was remembered as a dedicated mother who brought “joy and love” to her loved ones. The family described Mateo as “an innocent child whose life was taken far too soon.”

Photos highlighting significant moments in the victims’ lives, including graduation and pregnancy, have been shared with the community. Beyond funeral expenses, the family is also seeking support for counseling services and asks those unable to donate to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.

“They will remain in our hearts forever and never be forgotten,” the fundraising message concluded.