URGENT UPDATE: A mother of two, Patricia Villa, was tragically shot and killed while working at a storage facility in Covina, California, on November 2. The shooting has left the community in shock as the accused gunman, identified as Juan Nava, is now in police custody.
Authorities confirm that the shooting occurred around 5 p.m., just before the facility closed. Security footage shows a masked Nava arriving and arming himself before entering the facility. Family members reported they were unable to reach Patricia, leading them to drive to the location where they found her lying inside, having been shot five times.
Hundreds gathered for an emotional vigil on Saturday to honor Patricia’s memory. Family and friends describe her as a devoted mother and partner who brought positivity to all who knew her. “Patricia was a non-violent person… why did this have to happen to her?” lamented her father, Frank Villa.
Deann Pancheri, a coworker, shared her disbelief: “She was a dedicated employee, an awesome coworker, and somebody who brought light to everybody.” The loss has sparked outrage and grief within the community, with many questioning the senseless nature of the crime.
Investigators utilized facial recognition technology to identify Nava, a 66-year-old customer at the storage facility. Reports indicate that he may have been undergoing a mental health crisis at the time of the shooting. Following a search of his residence, authorities recovered multiple firearms, including automatic weapons and pistols.
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe page has been established to support Patricia’s family during this difficult time. Pancheri expressed the community’s shock, stating, “I don’t know how anybody could plan for something like this… because it was just that random.”
Nava has not been granted bail, and his next court appearance is scheduled for December 9. As this story develops, the Covina community continues to mourn the loss of a beloved mother and friend, with many calling for increased awareness around gun violence and mental health support.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
