ABILENE, TX — The Abilene community is mourning the tragic death of 24-year-old Aleisha Cabrera, who was fatally shot in her South Abilene apartment late Saturday night in a devastating act of domestic violence. Authorities have charged 23-year-old Steven Pena with First Degree Felony Murder in connection with her death.
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The incident occurred shortly before 11:00 p.m. on June 28, 2025, at an apartment complex located in the 2600 block of Ivanhoe Lane. Officers from the Abilene Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting and found Cabrera unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Pena, who was present at the apartment when police arrived, was taken into custody without incident. After being interviewed by detectives, he was formally charged with First Degree Murder and booked into the Taylor County Jail, where he remains held without bond.
In a heartbreaking detail, Cabrera’s young daughter was inside the apartment during the shooting but was not physically harmed. Child Protective Services has since taken custody of the child, and arrangements are being made to ensure her long-term care and safety.
Family, friends, and community members have taken to social media to express their grief and outrage over the loss of a young mother described as loving, vibrant, and devoted to her daughter.
“Aleisha was a light in every room she entered—strong, kind, and fiercely dedicated to her little girl,” one friend posted. “This tragedy is unimaginable.”
Police Chief Stan Standridge addressed the public, calling the incident a “heartbreaking example of domestic violence” and urging community members facing abuse to seek help.
“This heartbreaking loss, witnessed by a young child, underscores the devastating impact of domestic violence,” Standridge said. “We are fully committed to pursuing justice for Ms. Cabrera and supporting her family during this difficult time.”
Local advocacy organizations, including the Noah Project in Abilene, are renewing calls for awareness and support for victims of domestic abuse. The Noah Project offers a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency shelter, and counseling for those in need.
As the criminal investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact the Abilene Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division at (325) 676-6610 or submit tips anonymously through Abilene Crime Stoppers at (325) 676-TIPS.
A memorial for Aleisha Cabrera is expected to be organized in the coming days, as loved ones rally to honor her memory and support her daughter’s future.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit www.thehotline.org for confidential support.