The quiet town of Del Rio, Texas, was shaken to its core when a 32-year-old mother of five Caroline “Caro” Peña, was brutally stabbed in broad daylight. The horrific attack took place near a Sonic drive-through a busy intersection in the heart of the city. The suspects, Amaya Cookie Diaz, 19, Kitty Mia Diaz, 21, and Kyandra Renee Faz, 21 were swiftly arrested and charged with murder.
The victim a beloved figure in her community, was known for her generosity and nurturing spirit. Friends and family described Peña as a dedicated mother who would go out of her way to help others. Her tragic death has left a void in the lives of her five children and the community that loved her.
The Day of the Attack
On the afternoon of June 25, 2026, emergency services were called to the Val Verde Regional Medical Center after Peña arrived with multiple stab wounds. The severity of her injuries necessitated her transfer to a San Antonio medical facility for emergency treatment. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Peña succumbed to her injuries around 9 p.m. that evening.
The Del Rio Police Department launched an immediate investigation, reviewing surveillance footage processing evidence and interviewing witnesses. Their diligent work led to the identification and subsequent arrest of the three suspects. The Diaz sisters and Faz were taken into custody without incident and booked at the Del Rio Police Department before being transported to the GEO Correctional Facility.
The Arrests and Aftermath
Video footage captured outside the suspects’ residence shows a chilling contrast between the gravity of the situation and the behavior of the accused. Kitty Mia Diaz was seen flashing a brief smirk as she was escorted by officers. Her sister, Amaya Cookie Diaz was observed leaning her head through the window of a patrol car, sticking out her tongue and goofing off. The third suspect, Kyandra Renee Faz was heard laughing after yelling at a witness to stop recording.
The motive behind the attack remains undisclosed by authorities. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed as detectives continue to gather evidence. The community of Del Rio is left grappling with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.
A Community in Mourning
Friends and family of Caroline Peña have expressed their shock and devastation at her untimely death. Zelina Ochoa a childhood friend, recalled meeting Peña through a program for teen mothers continuing their education. The two supported each other by babysitting each other’s children while completing schoolwork. “If you needed something and she had it, even if it was her last, she’d give it to you,” Ochoa said.
Christina Salinas Peña’s best friend of eight years, shared her heartbreak over missing a call from Peña shortly before the attack. “I feel like if I would have answered that call, honestly I would have been there with her,” Salinas said. “It wouldn’t have gotten like that.” Salinas rushed to the hospital and was able to say goodbye before Peña was airlifted to San Antonio.
The loss of Caroline Peña has left a profound impact on her family and the community. Her five children, including a 17-year-old son nearing high school graduation, are left to navigate life without their beloved mother. The outpouring of support and condolences from friends and neighbors underscores the deep sense of loss felt by all who knew her.
