💔 San Jose Woman Fatally Stabbed After Months of Alleged Stalking; Prosecutors Charge Estranged Husband with Murder

A San Jose homicide investigation has drawn renewed attention to the dangers of stalking and domestic violence after prosecutors alleged that months of escalating harᴀssment ended in the fatal stabbing of Maria Liliana Vanegas Parra, 45.

According to the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, Maria died after being attacked inside her San Jose home on June 11, 2026. Authorities have charged her estranged husband, Pablo Aguilera Mora, 46, with murder and stalking in connection with the case.

Police responded to a distress call shortly before midnight and found Maria suffering from multiple stab wounds. Officers also located Aguilera Mora with what investigators described as self-inflicted injuries. Both were transported to a hospital, where Maria later died from her injuries.

Investigators allege the fatal attack was the culmination of a prolonged pattern of stalking and intimidation.

Court records indicate that Aguilera Mora had previously been arrested in March 2026 on stalking-related allegations. Prosecutors say he secretly placed GPS tracking devices on Maria’s vehicle, repeatedly damaged her tires, sent more than 100 messages and voicemails, and appeared at her workplace. Authorities also allege he applied for a job at the same workplace in an effort to maintain access to her.

Despite the earlier arrest and the issuance of an emergency protective order, prosecutors contend that the alleged harᴀssment continued after his release.

According to police, the situation escalated on the night of June 11, resulting in a violent confrontation inside the home. Investigators state that Maria was able to identify Aguilera Mora as the person responsible for the attack before she succumbed to her injuries.

Authorities also allege that the suspect threatened a witness who contacted emergency services during the incident.

The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue reviewing evidence and reconstructing the timeline leading up to the homicide.

Friends and family remember Maria as a compᴀssionate woman who loved the ocean, treasured her friendships, and devoted herself to her family. Loved ones described her as a caring mother who had been working to distance herself from what they said had become an increasingly dangerous relationship.

The case has sparked renewed discussion about the risks faced by victims of stalking and intimate partner violence. Advocates note that stalking behaviors—including unwanted surveillance, persistent communication, and tracking—can escalate over time and should be treated as serious warning signs.

Community members have gathered to honor Maria’s memory while calling for continued efforts to strengthen protections for victims and improve intervention before situations become fatal.

As the criminal case moves forward, prosecutors say they will continue seeking accountability while Maria’s family mourns the loss of a woman they say deserved the opportunity to live free from fear. 💔🕊️