Del Rio, Texas — Kitty Mia Diaz, one of three young women charged in the brutal stabbing death of a 32-year-old mother of five, appeared in court wearing bright orange jail garb and hand shackles. The 21-year-old anxiously glanced around as deputies escorted her from the Val Verde County Courthouse on Wednesday.

Diaz did not enter a plea during her hearing on first-degree murder and tampering with evidence charges. A judge reduced her bond from $5 million to $2 million, but she was returned to jail afterward. It was her first court appearance without her sister, 19-year-old Amaya “Cookie” Diaz, and their friend Kyandra Renee Faz, 21 — who are also charged in the killing of Caroline “Caro” Peña.

The Attack

Surveillance video captured the broad-daylight assault on June 25 in Del Rio. Peña was stabbed multiple times during a confrontation near a busy intersection. Cookie allegedly initiated the attack, with Kitty and Faz joining in. Peña was rushed to a hospital in San Antonio, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

After the killing, the sisters allegedly attempted to cover up the crime by changing clothes, showering, and washing evidence. Police found Kitty’s pink top in a washing machine during a search of their home.

The trio was arrested hours later. Video from outside their home showed the sisters smiling as they were taken into custody. Police have not yet disclosed a clear motive, though the women knew the victim.

Peña left behind five children, including a teenage son. Friends and family have described her as a generous and loving mother. A GoFundMe has been established to support her children.

The case remains active, with additional charges possibly forthcoming. The three suspects face significant prison time if convicted.

Sources:

• New York Post