Silveinusi Hamala’s arrest has raised community concerns about safety measures in local parks, sparking a debate about the need for increased surveillance and preventive measures.
In an incident that has cast a shadow of grief over City Heights, a man, Silveinusi Hamala, was arrested on charges of first-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of Chi Cao, a respected 65-year-old grandmother.
The incident happened on a seemingly regular Monday morning as Cao was engaged in her usual exercises at the Central Avenue Mini Park. This sudden act of violence has left the neighborhood in shock.
Also read: Is Serena Williams Muslim? Faith Race And Origin
Silveinusi Hamala: 23-Year-Old Arrested For Stabbing Grandmother Chi Cao To Death
In a horrifying event that has left a City Heights family grieving, Silveinusi Hamala was arrested for the fatal stabbing of a beloved grandmother at the Central Avenue Mini Park in San Diego.
The victim, 65-year-old Chi Cao, was renowned for her amicable personality and relentless hard work, which have left an indelible impact on her community and family.
Chi Cao was a much-adored face in her City Heights neighborhood. Often sighted walking or cycling down Central Avenue or exercising at the Central Avenue Mini Park near her home, she lived a life of quiet dedication to her family.
Her daily routine was abruptly and tragically halted on a Monday morning when an unexpected attack in the park ended her life.
The assailant was later identified as Silveinusi Hamala, who was arrested the same day at his family home a few blocks away. Hamala is currently facing charges of first-degree murder.
More On Chi Cao: Family Mourns Her Passing
Chi Cao had migrated from Vietnam eight years before pursuing a better life for her family.
She exhibited immense strength in her goal by collecting cans for recycling, and the profits she sent back to her family still residing in Vietnam.
Her granddaughter, Zillyan Tran, could not hold back tears as she described Cao’s deep-rooted love for her family. “She was such a kind lady. Everybody loved her,” Tran said.
She hoped Hamala would face the most severe punishment possible for the irreplaceable loss he had caused their family. Cao was a dedicated mother and grandmother and a firm patriot.
She had been studying intensively to pass the naturalization test and officially become a U.S. citizen, a dream she successfully fulfilled.
Her achievement was a source of immense joy and pride for her family, which has turned into a deep heartache as they prepare to bid her a final farewell.
Nonetheless, the family aspires to honor Cao’s dream of reuniting with her other daughter and grandson living in Vietnam.
The assailant, Silveinusi Hamala, has a prior criminal record in Maricopa County, Arizona, including convictions for domestic violence and disorderly conduct.
The San Diego County Jail’s records reveal an outstanding warrant for Hamala, though the specific details of the warrant are yet to be confirmed. Hamala’s arraignment is scheduled for June 22.
A vigil to honor and remember Chi Cao is planned for Friday at 5:30 pm at the Central Avenue Mini Park, where she used to exercise daily and tragically lost her life.
This sudden, shocking incident has stirred the community, leaving them mourning a well-respected member who stood as a symbol of unwavering love for her family and dedication to her new homeland.
Also read: Who Did Danny Lux Cheated On His Girl With? Relationship Timeline