Memorial grows for woman fatally shot in Half Moon Bay
HALF MOON BAY, Calif. (KGO) -- A memorial of flowers and candles is growing in Half Moon Bay where a young woman was shot and killed by a sheriff's deputy. While a community mourns, her family is demanding answers.
On Maidenhair Walk in Half Moon Bay, fresh flowers and candles pay tribute to 18-year-old Yanira Serrano-Garcia. She was shot and killed by San Mateo County Sheriff's Deputy Minh Trieu.
Last night, about 100 people attended a vigil at Our Lady of the Pillar Church. Family and friends say Yanira was a caring person who didn't have to die.
"You can't shoot someone with a medical condition, they could have Tased her or shot her in leg," said Alandra Rodriguez, friend.
They family says Yanira suffered from depression and was taking medication. They're asking for an honest investigation into the shooting.
Tuesday night sheriff's deputies responded to Miramontes Point Road on reports of a woman with a knife.
A witness says the woman quickly turned the knife on the Deputy Trieu.
"I just saw her chasing the cop with a knife in her hand and holding it like this, and I saw him shoot her," said witness.
The San Mateo County sheriff's department says the deputy's actions were justified.
"He was in the position where he feared for his life. He drew his weapon and shot," said San Mateo County Sheriff's Deputy Rebecca Rosenblatt.
No one answered the door at the family home today. The family has contacted an attorney.
