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Fabian Gamez shot in a home invasion in Tulare, California; Melissa Quinn and Raymond Garza stabbed to death while defending their home

Fabian Gamez shot in a home invasion in Tulare, California; Melissa Quinn and Raymond Garza stabbed to death while defending their home

TULARE, California — A home invasion ended in tragic loss for a California family already in mourning.

Surveillance video from last Thursday morning reportedly shows a burglar attempting to break into a home on Berkeley Way in Tulare, California.

He appears to see the camera then turn around and move to another house nearby.

That’s where police said Fabian Gamez, 30, tried to enter through the backyard when he was confronted by the owner, Melissa Quinn, 58.

Gamez attacked Quinn with a knife, then her son Raymond Garza, 38, tried to intervene and Gamez began stabbing him, detectives said.

The mother and her eldest son both died from their injuries.

“Losing them, not just one but both at the same time, is a huge blow to the family. They were our protectors and when something happened, they were the first to defend their family members,” said Michael Garza, Melissa’s second son. and Raymond’s younger brother.

He says their youngest sibling heard the commotion, came outside and shot the intruder.

He was able to hold the suspect until police arrived.

There were more than six people in the house, including Melissa’s father who she cared for and Raymond’s children, ages 7, 9 and 19.

The two youngest children also lost their mother in 2019 and are now dealing with the trauma of another tragedy.

“They are scared, what my cousin had to see seeing his father die on the ground after being viciously stabbed by the intruder,” Michael said.

ABC Fresno affiliate KFSN discovered that Gamez has a history of run-ins with police.

Detectives believe he searched the area Wednesday evening.

“Detectives now believe he may have broken into the area,” explained Sgt. Rosa Moreno, of the Tulare Police Department.

Gamez pleaded not guilty Tuesday to two counts of first-degree murder and one count of residential burglary under special circumstances.

The victims’ loved ones say they will continue to fight for justice as they honor the mother and son.

“They were in the spotlight of every event they would appear at. Their personality always shined,” Michael said.

The family now left with only memories and heartbreak.

Melissa is survived by six grandchildren and two sons.

Raymond is survived by his three young children. He was their only living parent.

The family has one GoFundMe page to help with funeral costs.

Gamez will appear in court again next month.

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