SAN ANTONIO — A mother of four was shot and killed while driving home. Now her family is left wondering why this happened.
San Antonio investigators said 31-year-old Julie Marie Butcher was shot in the head while driving on the I-35 access road near Rittiman Road around 9:20 p.m. Friday night.
Police said that caused Butcher to crash and roll over into a ditch. Police did not release any information they have on the suspect or suspects who fled the scene.
On Monday night, her father admitted he was still in shock. He was in bed Friday night when the shooting happened. He said the next day, police came to his door to let him know his daughter had been killed. He asked his nephew, Albert Vega to speak on behalf of the family.
“Julie was a beautiful soul and she was taken needlessly so our family is hurting and the community is hurting,” Vega said.
Vega said his family is full of faith which is what is helping them get through this unimaginable time. But they are asking for anyone who may have witnessed the shooting to come forward.
“Julie can’t speak for herself, so on behalf of our family, her friends, her children, we’re asking for help,” Vega said.
Police at the scene did not know the circumstances related to the shooting or if it was random. The family said they are also waiting for answers.
“We truly don’t know if it was related to road rage, perhaps if it was a targeted incident or something else but the person or persons who did this are still out there,” Vega said.
Vega said they don’t know how to explain what happened to Julie’s four children. She left behind three sons and one daughter. The youngest is just 6-years-old.
“She was devoted in everything she did,” Vega said. “She was a star, a bright star in our family, she was a beacon for us. She was a lot of fun to be around and we miss her.”
Vega said until they get justice, it will be tough for them to fully heal from this loss.
“I don’t know why this would happen but unless we do something, It will probably happen again,” Vega said.
The family has launched a GoFundMe to help pay for funeral expenses. If you would like to donate, click here.
If you have any information regarding the shooting, contact SAPD’s homicide unit at (210) 207-7635.