Mother Fatally Stabbed, Daughter Injured in Tragic Act of Jealousy

In a heart-wrenching incident that unfolded in Redwood City, California, a man who had violated a court order by moving into an apartment adjacent to the mother of his child has been formally charged with her murder. Prosecutors state that 44-year-old Jose Uriarte-Martinez’s violent outburst led to the death of her mother and the hospitalization of her daughter.

Seventeen-year-old Yenifer Lopez, bravely speaking out on an online fundraiser, shared a brief but harrowing account of the terrifying stabbing that claimed her mother’s life and left her injured. The wounded teenager explained that her mother’s life was tragically “ended out of jealousy” on July 30.

The incident unfolded when Uriarte-Martinez forcibly entered the Redwood City home on Sunday, stabbing both Lopez-Hernandez and her daughter multiple times. The scene was discovered when police found Uriarte-Martinez standing outside an apartment building on Fair Oaks Avenue, his clothing spattered with blood. He was swiftly apprehended around 12:30 a.m.

Uriarte-Martinez now faces multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, child abuse, and burglary. The defendant had previously been in a relationship with Lopez-Hernandez for about five years but had been living separately since their breakup. Uriarte-Martinez was on felony probation for a domestic violence conviction against Lopez-Hernandez in 2022, and both parties had willfully ignored a 10-year no-contact order, with Uriarte-Martinez living next door to his former partner.

According to San Mateo County District Attorney Stephen Wagstaffe, Uriarte-Martinez broke into the victim’s apartment using a key and a kitchen knife after learning that Lopez-Hernandez intended to move further north on the Peninsula with their two children. The brutal attack left Lopez-Hernandez wounded and bleeding on the floor, and despite paramedics’ efforts, she tragically succumbed to her injuries after being transported to a nearby hospital.

In an attempt to defend her mother, Yenifer Lopez also sustained stab wounds to the chest. She conveyed her ordeal in the online fundraiser, showcasing her courage throughout the ordeal. Lopez has been fully cooperative with investigators as they navigate this distressing situation.

Following the assault, Uriarte-Martinez entered his young son’s bedroom and offered an apology, highlighting the extent of the tragedy that unfolded that fateful night.

As Yenifer Lopez seeks to come to terms with this devastating loss, she has taken on the responsibility of caring for her younger brother. In the fundraiser, she expressed gratitude for the support received from well-wishers, with all donations directed toward accommodating the changes in her life and repatriating her mother’s body. The GoFundMe campaign has reached approximately $15,000 out of its $20,000 goal, reflecting the generosity of the community.

Uriarte-Martinez, who pleaded not guilty to all five charges during his arraignment, will appear in court again on October 8 for the setting of a preliminary hearing date. Currently held in custody on a no-bail status, he has been ordered to refrain from contacting his son and Yenifer Lopez.

In the aftermath of this horrific incident, the Redwood City community stands in unity, offering support and solace to the grieving Lopez family as they navigate this incomprehensible tragedy.