TULARE, CA — A Tulare family was thrust into devastation following a violent home invasion that resulted in the deaths of a mother and her son, leaving their relatives to grapple with unimaginable loss.

Security footage from the early hours of last Thursday allegedly captured a man attempting a break-in along Berkeley Way in Tulare. After spotting a camera, he reportedly shifted his focus to a neighboring residence.

Authorities say Fabian Gamez, 30, tried to enter through the backyard of Melissa Quinn’s home. When confronted by Quinn, 58, a struggle ensued. Gamez allegedly attacked her with a knife. Her son, Raymond Garza, 38, intervened, and Gamez then turned the weapon on him.

Both Quinn and Garza succumbed to their injuries amidst the chaos that unfolded that morning.

“Losing both at the same time is an immense blow to our family,” said Michael Garza, Raymond’s younger brother, depicting their lost loved ones as protectors who always rallied to their defense.

In the aftermath, the youngest sibling, who overheard the commotion, reportedly armed himself to subdue the intruder, preventing his escape until law enforcement arrived.

The attack took place in a bustling home, sheltering over six family members. Among them was Melissa’s father, for whom she was a caregiver, and Raymond’s children—aged 7, 9, and 19—left reeling from yet another loss after their mother passed away in 2019.

Describing the ordeal, Michael Garza shared the trauma endured by his nephew, who witnessed his father’s final moments following the brutal altercation.

Fabian Gamez, who has a criminal history, is suspected of having been in the area previously, possibly scoping out potential targets, as per detectives from the Tulare Police Department.

Charged with two counts of first-degree murder and residential burglary with special circumstances, Gamez has pleaded not guilty. His next court appearance is slated for next month.

The relatives of the victims vowed to honor the memories of Melissa and Raymond, celebrating their vibrant personalities and deeply missed presence as they seek justice.

The family faces the difficult task of moving forward and has established a GoFundMe campaign to manage funeral costs. Melissa leaves behind six grandchildren in addition to her sons. Raymond’s passing leaves his three children without parents, compounding the family’s heartbreak.