Children Mourn Mother Shot and Killed in Domestic Violence Incident: “She Was Everything to Us”

Children Mourn Mother Shot and Killed in Domestic Violence Incident: “She Was Everything to Us”

The Central California community of Reedley is grieving after a tragic domestic violence incident claimed the life of 43-year-old Yesennia Rocha, a devoted mother, daughter, and friend remembered for her kindness, light, and unwavering love for her children.

Authorities say Yesennia was fatally shot over the weekend by her estranged husband, 43-year-old Michael Rocha, during an incident witnessed by family and their two adult children.

“She Was the Light of Our World”

Yesennia’s children, Kayla and Jacob Rocha, shared heartfelt words about their mother’s impact:

“She was the light of our world,” Kayla said. “She shined very bright. She was always there for me and my brother. She was everything to us.”

Jacob added:

“I just wish I could see her one more time, hold her one more time, tell her I love her, give her a hug, but that man took everything away from us.”

A Family Torn Apart

After the shooting, Michael fled the scene but was later tracked down by authorities in Tulare County. Following a short pursuit, he exchanged gunfire with deputies and was killed.

Michael’s mother, Rita Rocha, shared through tears that the couple had been together since middle school and married for 25 years, though recently separated:

“He couldn’t cope with her filing for divorce. He didn’t want to live without his sweetheart, his soulmate, the love of his life. He chose the cowardly way out.”

A Legacy of Love

Yesennia’s children say their mother’s love was boundless and her presence unforgettable.

“To be a grandmother to mine and my sister’s kids when we get to that point, unfortunately, I’ll never get that, and he took that away from us,” Jacob said.

“I see her everywhere,” Kayla added. “I see her in a beautiful day, in a Christian worship song, in clouds. I see her in flowers and plants, because she loved all of those things. I see her in the mirror because I look just like her.”

The Rocha family is leaning on faith, community support, and cherished memories to get through this devastating time. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family with expenses as they grieve.