National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is for families to be a voice for a loved one, learn about resources and know they are not alone.
SAN ANTONIO — It’s been three years since a San Antonio mother lost her 21-year-old son, Isaiah Orozco, to a violent crime.
Through her journey of healing, she is still learning to cope with her grief.
The family of Isaiah Orozco celebrated Sunday on what would have been his 25th birthday. The family held a balloon release downtown, where his life was cut short.
Orozco’s mother, Connie Esparza, says Isaiah will never be forgotten.
“He’s always going to be a part of our lives,” said Esparza.
In February of 2022, Orozco was shot and killed at a bus stop on South St. Mary’s Street.
In September 2024, a jury convicted Joseph Harris of Isaiah’s murder and sentenced him to 68 years in prison. Harris shot at Isaiah 16 times while Isaiah was walking away.
“It’s just been very hard. Every day is a challenge, you know, having to wake up and get myself of out bed,” said Exparza.
Esparza’s grief is something Lori Rocha can relate to.
Her son, Aaron Rocha, was shot and killed during a road rage incident on Huebner Road and NW Military Drive. The shooting happened on November 26, 2016.
“It’s pure devastation and for the mother, you are like a walking zombie,” said Rocha.
Rocha says National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is an opportunity to be a voice for their loved ones, letting them know there are resources and they are not alone.
Rocha runs a group called, Families United for Justice, Unsolved Crimes.
“We’re not a therapist. We are parents, supporting parents, peer-to-peer support and that helps and is very important on this journey back from the shattering,” said Rocha.
As Esparza and her family continue on their journey of healing, celebrating Isaiah’s birthday gives them some comfort.
Esparza says she has relied heavily on her faith and has a message for other mothers and families, going through their journey.
“I never gave up, I never lost hope,” she said. “Even though I had my tough days.”
Rocha also wants to remind everyone that Crime Stoppers tips can be reported anonymously. If you have any information about a crime, she encourages you to call because it could be the tip that brings a family the closure they need.