Yesli Velasquez Gonzalez, a 23-year-old resident of Baldwin Park, California, tragically lost her life on June 5, 2022, in a domestic-related incident. Yesli, along with her 6-year-old son, Angel Velasquez, was fatally shot in the backyard of their home. The incident occurred around 9:20 p.m. on Merced Avenue. Both victims suffered gunshot wounds to their upper bodies, with Yesli dying at the scene and Angel succumbing to his injuries at a hospital shortly after. The community was left in shock and mourning, as Yesli was known for her sweet disposition and dedication to her work as a classroom aide in the Baldwin Park School District.
The primary suspect in this tragic case is Yesli's live-in boyfriend, Rigoberto Covarrubias, who was 36 years old at the time. Covarrubias was not Angel's father, but he had been in a relationship with Yesli for several years. According to reports, the relationship had been marked by aggressive behavior from Covarrubias, which had caused concern among Yesli's family and friends. On the night of the incident, neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots and saw Covarrubias leaving the scene in a car. Despite an extensive manhunt, Covarrubias remained at large, with authorities suspecting that he might have fled to Mexico.
The case has drawn significant attention, with law enforcement agencies urging anyone with information to come forward. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has been leading the investigation, and they have been working tirelessly to locate Covarrubias. The community has rallied around Yesli's family, offering support and raising awareness about the dangers of domestic violence. A GoFundMe page was set up to help cover the funeral expenses and provide financial assistance to the grieving family.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Yesli's family has been vocal about the need for justice and the importance of addressing domestic violence. They have shared their heartbreak and urged others in similar situations to seek help and not remain silent. The case remains open, with authorities continuing their efforts to bring Covarrubias to justice and provide closure to Yesli's loved ones.