Stefan and Mechthild Schroer were celebrating their wedding anniversary and Mechthild's birthday when she was killed by a stray bullet on Mason St. near Geary last August. At that time, Stefan said he would return to San Francisco with their children on a pilgrimage, of sorts, to the place where they lost their mother.
The family's visit comes at a time when there are new developments in the investigation of the still unsolved murder.
Stefan and his two sons Tobias and Jonas left their hotel Monday morning for a busy day of sightseeing. He wants to show his children their mother's favorite city. Sadly, San Francisco is also where she was murdered.
She was killed during an apparent shootout among rival gang members. Investigators say it happened after an altercation at a hip hop party. Hundreds of young people attended the event. Security video shows them running for their lives during the shooting. Arrests were made shortly after the murder but the suspects were released. District Attorney Kamala Harris said there was insufficient evidence.
"Make an arrest. Make a conviction. Let's get these guys," says one taxi driver who actually chased the car which police believe carried some of those involved in the shooting. "I'm saddened by the fact that the killers haven't been brought to justice yet."
His wish may come true. Investigators say that over the last several months, they have come up with more evidence which they believe will lead to arrests.
"Our DA's office wanted more work on it. They wanted some loose ends tied up, which we have done, and so now we've re-submitted it," says SFPD Capt. Mike Biel.
Schroer also wants justice, but has been quoted as saying he bears no grudge against the city. Union Square merchants want to make sure he gets a big heartfelt welcome. The Kimpton chain is providing a complimentary stay at one of its hotels. The owner of Sears restaurant and Lori's Diner has offered complimentary meals during their stay
"We really have sad feelings about the family and we would like to show a small gesture to give them a sense of comfort," ears owner Man J. Kim says.
There will be a memorial service on Wednesday. On Wednesday, Schroer will also be briefed by District Attorney George Gascon and investigators on the latest developments in the case.
