Southern California(Thechieftainspear) – A Southern California community is in mourning after a mother of four was found stabbed to death in her apartment last week.
Fontana police responded to a call at the Orchards Apartment complex around 3 a.m. on March 21, where they discovered 38-year-old Rachelle Lopez lying on the floor with fatal stab wounds. Her roommate, who made the tragic discovery, immediately called authorities.
Investigators identified the suspect as 43-year-old Luis Chavira, a maintenance worker at the complex and Lopez’s former boyfriend. The two had been involved in an on-again, off-again relationship, according to authorities. Lopez worked in the front office of the complex, where she and Chavira had met.
A family member, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed chilling details about the crime. “He went into her apartment and killed her with a hatchet,” they said. “It’s terrifying, heartbreaking, and senseless.”
Chavira, who had previously served 16 years in prison for armed robbery, was later located and arrested in Moreno Valley.
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Friends and loved ones remember Lopez as a kind and caring person, always willing to help others. A security worker who had known her, identified only as Nick, described her as welcoming and friendly.
“She was one of the first people to greet me when I started working here,” he said. “She didn’t deserve this. I just wish someone could have stopped it.”
Lopez leaves behind four children between the ages of 6 and 12. Her family is now focused on seeking justice while grappling with an unimaginable loss.
“She had a huge heart,” a relative shared. “She was always taking care of others. Now her children have to grow up without their mother.”
A memorial has been set up outside her apartment to honor her memory, and a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses.
The apartment complex management issued a statement expressing condolences to Lopez’s family and affirming their commitment to resident safety. They also noted that all employees undergo background checks.
During his court appearance on Wednesday, Chavira pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. The investigation remains ongoing.
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