x
Breaking News
More () »

Stockton mother searching for answers in daughter's killing 4 years later

Shylee Martinez was at a house party on Nov. 7, 2015 when someone opened fire, shooting and killing the 21-year-old. Her murder is unsolved.

STOCKTON, Calif. — Crystal Rea has been seeking answers surrounding the circumstances of her daughter’s murder for years.

Shylee Martinez was at a house party on Nov. 7, 2015 when someone opened fire, according to the Stockton Police Department. Martinez, 21, was shot and killed.  

Martinez's death is one of hundreds of more than 500 cold cases in San Joaquin County.

RELATED: San Joaquin County has 500-plus cold cases. Now a Grand Jury report is calling for law enforcement changes

While Rea continues to hope for answers, no new details have come to light in her daughter’s case in four years. 

A Grand Jury investigation brought the issue of unsolved killings to light earlier this year through a 27-page report. However, departments in the area are refocusing on the issue, which gives mothers like Rea hope.

“All I want is justice, you know,” Rea said. “At least a piece of mind... I hate having to worry about this day every year.”

On the fourth memorial of her daughter's death, Rea met with family and friends who lit candles, wrote messages on balloons, prayed, and sent paper lanterns in the air to remember the young woman.

“She always loved to come down and just walk around. She loved to be by the water,” Rea said.

Rea is calling for anyone with answers to come forward. Anyone with information can contact the Stockton Police Department or Crime Stoppers.

Continue the conversation with Giacomo on Facebook.

FREE ABC10 APP:

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Stay In the Know! Sign up now for ABC10's Daily Blend Newsletter

WATCH ALSO: Stockton, Calif. | The homicide rate is rising. How will the city answer?

With 22 murders in five months, the homicide rate in Stockton is rising faster than it has in previous years. To combat this, Stockton PD has initiated Operation RVN. Stockton Police Chief explains exactly what this new strategy is and what it hopes to accomplish.  

Before You Leave, Check This Out