SAN ANTONIO — A new report from the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) shows homicides are up this year. More than half of the murders stemmed from family violence, officials say.
On Saturday, deputies were called to the 1200 block of Farnsworth Drive for reports of a stabbing. Authorities say the suspect called 911 and claimed she "killed her mother."
Sheriff Javier Salazar said the crime scene could only be described as "grisly."
“The victim was apparently stabbed well over a couple dozen times,” said Salazar. “The knife was still lodged in her chest when first responders arrived.”
The sheriff says Rachel Zamarripa, 21, was overwhelmed with the responsibility of being her mother’s primary caregiver. Investigators believe financial stress motivated the attack.
Linda Zamarripa, 58, was rushed to the hospital where she died.
“By all indications, [Rachel] snapped,” Salazar said.
It’s part of a troubling trend. Data shows BCSO responded to 15 homicides this year. That’s more than the totals over the past three years. The report also indicates a sharp increase in family violence homicides.
“Financial stress is common,” said Salazar. “[The increase] could also be attributed to the hot weather. I can tell you as a 32-year cop, the weather does come into play. There’s a lot of factors.”
It’s not just deputies who are responding to gruesome attacks.
On August 29, Leon Valley police were called to the 6000 block of Walking Gait Drive after an 18-year-old allegedly stabbed his father to death. Marshal Bahadury was arrested and charged with the murder of Akalshah Bahadury.
On August 30, San Antonio police responded to the 1100 block of Linden Avenue where a man allegedly tried to stab his brother and sister. Both victims are expected to be okay.
“We have seen it where it’s a female perpetrator,” said Salazar. “We have seen where it’s parent-on-child violence, we have seen child-on-parent violence, partner-on-partner violence.”
Salazar says family violence can happen anywhere. That’s why he wants those living with abusive partners or relatives to know help is available.
“Domestic violence, without fail, doesn’t get any better,” he said. “In fact, it’s the opposite. It continues to escalate to the point where you could end up being one of these fatalities.”
Family Violence Prevention Services, Inc. provides wraparound assistance; from living arrangements, to job training, to counseling and financial help. If you or someone you love is in an abusive relationship, please call their crisis hotline at 210-733-8810.