Full Breakdown
Stabbing Death of Caroline Peña in Del Rio
6/29/2026, 10:54:55 PM
Victim and Suspects
Peña, 32, left five children and a twin sister. Police identified three suspects: sisters Kitty Mia Diaz (21) and Amaya “Cookie” Diaz (19), and friend Kyandra Renee Faz (21). All were arrested without incident, charged with murder and moved to the GEO Correctional Facility.
Timeline
- ~2:10 p.m.: Police dispatched after stab-wound report.
- 2:10–2:20 p.m.: Victim arrived; location identified.
- 4:00 p.m.: Diaz sisters arrested; Faz arrested soon after.
- 9:00 p.m.: Peña declared dead.
- Afterward: Suspects booked, moved to GEO.
Official Response
The Del Rio Police Department said the investigation remains active, confirming the timeline and location. Police cited surveillance footage, physical evidence and witness interviews as basis for the arrests and noted additional charges may follow if a motive is established. No motive has been released.
Community Reaction and Criticism
Witnesses said the stabbing unfolded in plain view on a busy corner. KENS 5 video captured the Diaz sisters smiling during arrest. Zelina Ochoa called Peña “a mom born to love motherhood.” Christina Salinas said the loss felt like a part of her was ripped out, urged police to disclose a motive, and noted that answering Peña’s missed call might have prevented the attack.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Fox News reported two back wounds and one abdomen wound; PEOPLE noted two back wounds and a third in the stomach side; KENS 5 added a wound punctured the lungs. Custody status is described as both “held without bond” and “pending magistration.” No motive released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This wasn’t something that happened in a back alley; this happened at the corner near Sonic on one of our busiest roads in broad daylight,” — Zelina Ochoa, Childhood Friend
- “If you needed something and she had it, even if it was her last, she’d give it to you,” — Zelina Ochoa
- “I feel like if I would have answered that call, honestly I would have been there with her. It wouldn’t have gotten like that,” — Christina Salinas, Friend
- “That girl, she was a fighter. She was still standing her ground,” — Christina Salinas
- “It’s like a part of me got ripped out and that’s something I’m not going to get back,” — Christina Salinas, Friend
What’s Next
The DRPD said the investigation remains ongoing, with detectives pursuing motive and potential additional charges. The three suspects remain at the GEO Correctional Facility pending future court appearances. Police have asked the public to share any information.
