STOCKTON, Calif. — For the second time in less than two years, a Stockton mom is burying a son who was the victim of violence.
Renea Debudey describes her son, 32-year-old Emiliano Debudey as the man who would always show up with something for his family.
"He was the most kind, loving person you could ever meet," said Renea. "Every single day, it was something. I don't care if it was a certain soda, a food, anything, a TV... He has a beautiful soul."
A soul that his mom says was taken too soon.
"I want to hold my baby, but I can't," said Renea. "I knew God had a plan for him but I didn't think it was this."
According to family, Emiliano, who had pre-existing medical conditions, was assaulted in front of his home while helping a friend move out. It wasn't until days later that his mom says the pain for him became unbearable.
"His arteries were already compromised," said Renea. "From that day on, it was like walking down a flight of stairs every day and it got to where I had to feed him."
An ambulance eventually took Emiliano to a hospital. After hours in a hospital room, hope turned to despair and the familiar feeling of hurt returned when doctors took him off life support.
According to the Stockton Police Department, the case has been transferred to the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office. Family members say the attacker is still at large.
"I wouldn't wish that upon my worst, worst enemy ever to lose a child," said Renea. "And this is our third boy."
Renea and her husband lost their first child to newborn illnesses at two months old. In August 2022, Emiliano's brother Salvador was shot and killed by the suspected Stockton serial killer.
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"It's just something no parent should ever have to go through, but unfortunately in this world, we do," said Debudey. "My memories are like a double-edged sword."
Living a nightmare, the emotions change quickly for Renea, but she can only feel peace when she remembers some of the last words her son said to her.
"He said, 'Mom I just want to thank you and dad for helping me through this,'" said Renea. "I know he's not hurting anymore."
Watch more from ABC10: Stockton families, city leaders hold vigil for victims of suspected serial killer
