Good Samaritan Stabbed to Death in Front of Son; Suspect Released

A Good Samaritan was tragically killed in a Tustin, California gas station on May 24, 2025. Stephen Mendez, 27, was stabbed to death in front of his six-year-old son. The suspect, Jesus Herrera, 51, is in custody, but no charges have been filed. Mendez's family is demanding justice, expressing their anger and grief. "It hurts, like my heart just got ripped out of me," said Desiree Aguilar, Mendez's mother. The incident occurred outside a 76 gas station on Edinger Avenue. The DA's office is currently reviewing the case and hasn't decided whether to file charges. The family's plea for justice highlights the need for transparency and accountability in such cases. The community is rallying in support of Mendez's family.