The death of 45-year-old Maria Liliana Vanegas Parra has left the San Jose community mourning as prosecutors continue pursuing a murder case that has also renewed conversations about the dangers of stalking and domestic violence.

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

Police responded to a call for emergency ᴀssistance 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.

Prosecutors allege the fatal attack followed months of escalating stalking and intimidation.

According to court records, Aguilera Mora had previously been arrested in March 2026 on stalking-related allegations. Prosecutors allege that he 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 that he applied for a job at the same workplace in an effort to maintain contact with her.

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

Investigators say the situation escalated on the night of June 11, resulting in a violent confrontation inside Maria’s home. According to authorities, Maria was able to identify Aguilera Mora as the person responsible for the attack before she later died from her injuries.

Police 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 working to establish the complete timeline of events leading up to the homicide.

Family members and friends remember Maria as a compᴀssionate woman who loved the ocean, cherished her friendships, and devoted herself to her family. Loved ones say she was a caring mother who had been working to move forward with her life while distancing herself from what they described as an increasingly dangerous relationship.

The case has prompted renewed discussions about the risks ᴀssociated with stalking and intimate partner violence. Advocates emphasize that behaviors such as unwanted surveillance, persistent communication, and tracking should be taken seriously, as they can escalate over time.

As the legal process continues, community members have gathered to honor Maria’s memory while calling for stronger protections for victims and greater awareness of the warning signs of stalking and domestic violence.

Maria Liliana Vanegas Parra is remembered not for the violence that ended her life, but for the kindness she shared with others, her love for her family, and the lasting impact she made on those who knew her. Her loved ones continue to grieve an immeasurable loss while seeking justice in her memory.