Rachael Martinez, 31, and her husband, Jose Medina, 39, were trying to protect their family from harm. After ending a brief relationship in September with 26-year-old Christopher Farrell, a security guard, Martinez reported to the San Diego police that she had been sexually assaulted and held captive by Farrell. However, charges were not filed, and the case was dropped due to lack of evidence.
Despite this, Martinez and Medina sought a restraining order to keep Farrell away from them and their children. Tragically, just 30 minutes before their court hearing to make the restraining order permanent, Farrell shot and killed them in their car. He was later killed in a shootout with the police.
The couple leaves behind four children, who are currently in the care of Martinez’s older sister. The children attended a local center where their parents were remembered as caring individuals. Martinez had described Farrell’s abuse and harassment in her request for the restraining order, expressing fear for her family’s safety.
Martinez and Medina were described as a loving couple by family members. Martinez was known for her cooking skills, while Medina was remembered as a sociable and lively individual. The couple had been married since 2016.
Farrell had harassed Martinez and her husband, leading to his arrest and subsequent release on bail. The case was closed due to insufficient evidence just a day before the tragic incident. Following the shooting, Farrell engaged in a shootout with the police, resulting in his death.
The injured police officer is recovering, and authorities are investigating the incident. Domestic violence remains a significant issue, with a high percentage of women being killed by intimate partners.
A fundraiser has been set up to support the couple’s children and cover funeral expenses. The Chicano Federation is also collecting donations to aid the children and their caregivers. The children’s preschool expressed sadness over the loss of their parents, describing them as devoted and positive individuals.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. In the U.S., you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for support.
