Homicides in Bexar County have surged this year, with more than half linked to family violence, according to a new report from the sheriff’s office. On Saturday, deputies responded to the 1200 block of Farnsworth Drive after a 911 call in which the suspect claimed she “killed her mother.”
Sheriff Javier Salazar described the scene as “grisly.” “The victim was apparently stabbed well over a couple of dozen times,” Salazar said. “The knife was still lodged in her chest when first responders arrived.”
Investigators identified the suspect as 21-year-old Rachel Zamarripa, who they believe was overwhelmed by the strain of being her mother’s caregiver. Authorities said financial stress may have been a motivating factor. The victim, 58-year-old Linda Zamarripa, was taken to the hospital but did not survive.
“By all indications, [Rachel] snapped,” Salazar said. The sheriff’s office report shows deputies have already handled 15 homicides this year—more than the totals from the last three years combined. Officials said the sharp increase in family violence is particularly alarming.
“Financial stress is common,” Salazar explained. “[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 are a lot of factors.” The spike in violence extends beyond county deputies.
On August 29, Leon Valley police arrested 18-year-old Marshal Bahadury after he allegedly stabbed his father, Akalshah Bahadury, to death on Walking Gait Drive. A day later, San Antonio police were called to Linden Avenue after a man allegedly attempted to stab his brother and sister. Both victims survived.
The incidents highlight the wide range of cases officers now face. “We have seen it where it’s a female perpetrator,” Salazar said. “We have seen where it’s parent-on-child violence, we have seen child-on-parent violence, partner-on-partner violence.”
Salazar stressed that family violence can happen in any household and urged those in abusive situations to seek help before it escalates. “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. continues to provide support for those in crisis, offering housing, counseling, job training, and financial assistance. Their 24-hour crisis hotline is 210-733-8810. As homicides climb, local officials say prevention and support services are more important than ever to keep vulnerable families safe.