Alicia Montejano, a 43-year-old mother of three, and her 19-year-old son, Reuel Huerta, were tragically found beaten to death in their Stockton, California, home just two days before Christmas. The shocking discovery was made Monday night, December 23, after police responded to calls of unresponsive individuals at a residence on the 2500 block of Belleview Avenue.
According to the Stockton Police Department, officers arrived at around 11 p.m. and found both Montejano and Huerta unresponsive. They were pronounced dead at the scene. Police have identified 38-year-old Julio Ceasar Valdez, Montejano’s boyfriend, as the prime suspect in the killings. Valdez remains at large and is believed to be driving a gray 4-door sedan.
While the police have not officially confirmed the cause of death, reports indicate that Montejano and Huerta were beaten to death. A weapon was reportedly recovered at the scene, and lacerations were found on Huerta’s body.
The tragedy came to light when Montejano’s daughter, Marisa Vigil, grew concerned after not hearing from her mother all day. Vigil went to the home to check on her family and discovered their bodies, immediately calling 911.
A family member told KCRA 3 that the incident may have stemmed from a domestic dispute involving Valdez. In the wake of this horrific crime, a GoFundMe has been established to support Montejano’s surviving children and cover funeral expenses.
“It’s with the heaviest heart that we announce that on December 23, 2024, the lives of a Mother and Son were both senselessly taken from us too soon as victims of crime,” the fundraiser states. “Together, they brought joy to all those around them and shared a family with an unbreakable bond. They will never be forgotten.”
The family is appealing for community support, emphasizing that no family should face such a tragedy alone. “Every contribution helps, no matter the size; please consider helping give this mother and her son the farewell that they deserve.”
Stockton Police are urging anyone with information on Valdez’s whereabouts to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling Stockton Crime Stoppers at 209-946-0600 or visiting their website at StocktonCrimeStoppers.org.
As the investigation continues, Montejano and Huerta’s loved ones are left to mourn the loss of two lives taken too soon, united in their resolve to honor their memory and seek justice.