Rachel Martinez, 30, was shot and killed at her home in Woodville, California, on July 31, 2021. Tulare County deputies found her deceased after responding to a violent confrontation that began when Ruben Sanchez — the father of Rachel’s sister Josephine’s children — attacked Josephine. Rachel intervened to protect her sister and was fatally shot during the altercation.

Sanchez fled the scene and a two-day manhunt ended at Woodville Cemetery, where deputies shot him; he later died of his injuries. Investigators reported the murder weapon was never recovered and described Sanchez as armed and dangerous during the search. Rachel’s family initially planned a private funeral out of fear of further violence but held a public service after Sanchez died.

Rachel’s family remembered her as loving and generous; her death has been framed by the community as a tragic example of domestic violence and the risks faced by those who step in to help. If anyone has information about the case or Rachel’s life in Woodville, please share what you know.