southern california man gunned down by suspected thieves in mexico
Tragedy Strikes: Southern California Man Killed in Mexico
The family of Isaac Lopez, a 23-year-old from Riverside, is heartbroken after he was fatally shot during a visit to Mexico.
A Family Reunion Turns Fatal
Isaac traveled to Ensenada to see his grandmother and attend his sister’s vow renewal. Eager to reconnect, he brought along his boyfriend, Jake, and cousin, Darlene.
On October 7, after a weekend of celebration, the trio began their drive back to Southern California. Unfortunately, tragedy struck near Rosarito.
Details of the Incident
Lopez’s sister, Karen Lajud, recounted the terrifying moment she received a call from Jake. He reported a gunshot, and she remembers hearing how Isaac had slumped forward while driving.
As they crashed into a ditch, a man approached their car asking if everyone was alright. In a shocking turn of events, he drew a gun, shot Jake in the shoulder, and then shot Darlene.
The assailant demanded valuables, but ironically, they only stole Isaac’s phone, leaving his wallet untouched—adding bewilderment to the family’s grief.
Delayed Response
The family mentions the long wait for help, with authorities taking over an hour to arrive, during which Isaac succumbed to his injuries. Jake and Darlene survived the harrowing ordeal.
A Call for Justice
His family believes the vehicle was targeted due to its U.S. plate. Currently, they are navigating the complicated and costly process of repatriating Isaac’s body for a proper funeral.
"He was the sweetest person you could have ever met," Lajud lamented, emphasizing the depth of their loss.
To aid in funeral costs, a GoFundMe page has been established. Meanwhile, the U.S. government has issued a travel advisory for the region, citing risks of crime.
