Sports community honors 4-year-old Watsonville murder victim

A local sports community remembers a 4-year-old girl shot and killed Friday at her family’s Watsonville business.

Watsonville police released Tuesday the photograph of Michael Escobar, the man suspected of firing the shots that ultimately killed Jaelyn Zavala and Ramon Rendon, 33, at the Fish House Bar & Grill.

The tragic death of Zavala is having a tremendous impact on a local sports community. Her family is deeply rooted in youth sports and activities on the Monterey Peninsula.

On Tuesday the Monterey High Football Booster Club told News Channel 5 its doing everything it can to help the well-loved and respected family get through a difficult time.

“Having the ability to reach out and put your hand on someone’s shoulder in time of need is really, really important,” said Vince Finona, president of the Monterey High Football Booster Club.

Finona said the sports community was struck hard when they learned Zavala was killed by a stray bullet as she sat in the back office of her family’s restaurant.

Her uncle is a varsity athlete on Monterey High School’s football team. Her entire family has been active in local sports for many years.

“They’re avid volunteers with Marina Soccer, Marina Baseball, and they also volunteer with Marina Youth Football,” Finona said.

And now he said he wants to return the love they’ve shown to the community.

Finona said the 4-year-old Marina soccer player will be remembered by her energy, and big, happy smile.

“A senseless tragedy like this opens your eyes and makes you realize that life can be short,” Finona said.

He said since the tragedy many sports organizations have gathered to help the Zavalas cope with the loss of their baby girl.

“We’re going to be doing a moment of silence but in addition to that we’re looking to do a commemorative sticker on the back of our helmets to remember Jaelyn’s life and her spirit,” he said.

The Monterey High School Football Booster Club and Marina Youth Soccer League will be raising funds in her honor. There are also a few special memorials planned this weekend.

The family is planning funeral services for Zavala this week.

Arraignment for Escobar is set for Wednesday.