Family of Aurora Rosendo-Ortega and Santiago Pacheco-Rosendo Devastated by Tragic Domestic Violence Incident in Castle Hayne
CASTLE HAYNE, NC — The family and friends of Aurora Rosendo-Ortega and Santiago Pacheco-Rosendo are grieving deeply after a devastating and senseless act of domestic violence unfolded in Castle Hayne on April 7, 2025. In a shocking and tragic series of events, Aurora Rosendo-Ortega, a 35-year-old mother, was fatally shot, and her son, Santiago Pacheco-Rosendo, was injured while trying to intervene and protect his mother from harm. The community, the family, and everyone who knew them are left to cope with an unimaginable loss.
At approximately 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, deputies from the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a residence on Bowman Drive after reports of multiple gunshots. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers discovered Aurora Rosendo-Ortega lying deceased from an apparent gunshot wound. The situation quickly turned into an investigation that revealed the tragic circumstances surrounding the incident.
Santiago Pacheco-Rosendo, Aurora’s 18-year-old son, was found at the scene with non-life-threatening gunshot injuries. Santiago had attempted to intervene in the violent situation and protect his mother from the attack. In his brave attempt to help his mother, Santiago was shot, but he was able to survive the traumatic event. He was transported to Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center for immediate treatment, and fortunately, his injuries were not life-threatening. However, the emotional scars of witnessing such an event, coupled with the loss of his mother, will undoubtedly stay with him for years to come.
The investigation soon revealed that the shooter, Avelino Jaimes-Acuna, had a history with Aurora Rosendo-Ortega. The two had previously been in a relationship, but law enforcement officials determined that this tragic event was the result of escalating domestic violence. Avelino Jaimes-Acuna, 38, forcibly entered the home and shot Aurora, killing her before turning the gun on himself. Jaimes-Acuna was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was later transported to the hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have confirmed that the incident was a murder-suicide, driven by domestic violence.
This horrifying act has left Santiago Pacheco-Rosendo to grapple with not only the physical recovery from his injuries but also the overwhelming emotional toll of losing his mother in such a violent and traumatic way. Friends and family members of Santiago have been rallying around him, offering support as he navigates the emotional aftermath of the tragedy.
Aurora Rosendo-Ortega, known for her kindness, compassion, and dedication to her family, is being remembered fondly by all who knew her. Her family describes her as a loving and devoted mother who was always ready to lend a helping hand to others. In a statement, the family said, “Aurora was the light of our lives. She was a strong, loving mother who gave everything for her family. Her loss has left a hole in our hearts that can never be filled. We are devastated and struggling to understand how something so senseless could have happened.”
Aurora’s loved ones have expressed that their grief is compounded by the violence that took her life. As the family comes together to mourn her tragic passing, they are also deeply concerned for Santiago, whose life was forever altered by the traumatic events he witnessed. “Santiago is so brave, but he has suffered a loss that no child should ever have to endure. Please keep him in your prayers as he works through this incredibly difficult time,” the family said.
Santiago Pacheco-Rosendo, despite his physical recovery, faces a long emotional journey ahead. As the only surviving member of the incident, he will need the love and support of his family and community to heal from the trauma and the pain of losing his mother in such a violent way. Santiago’s brave actions to try to protect his mother demonstrate the love and strength he had for her, but no amount of bravery could have prepared him for the tragedy that unfolded that morning.
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing, and they have pledged to support the family through this difficult time. Sheriff’s Office officials also urged anyone who might be struggling in a similar situation to seek help and reach out to domestic violence resources before situations like this escalate to violence.
In response to the tragic incident, the family has called attention to the importance of addressing domestic violence and providing support for those in dangerous or abusive relationships. They have expressed gratitude for the support and prayers they have received from the community and have asked for privacy as they continue to grieve the loss of a beloved mother, daughter, and friend.
Aurora Rosendo-Ortega’s life was tragically cut short by a violent act, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. Santiago will always carry the memory of his mother’s love, and while the path ahead will be difficult, the strength of his family and the outpouring of support from the community will be crucial in helping him through this painful time.
As this tragedy continues to unfold, the family of Aurora Rosendo-Ortega and Santiago Pacheco-Rosendo is urging anyone who is experiencing or witnessing domestic violence to seek help
