OCEANSIDE, Calif. (KGTV) — A woman shot and killed over the weekend in Oceanside was identified as KinderCare teacher Chelsea Pacheco, and the man accused in her death remains on the loose.
Co-workers say Pacheco was the hardest working person they knew, dedicated to her students, always with a great attitude and a beautiful smile.
Oceanside Police say they were called to Bush and Archer streets, just before noon on June 4, after reports of a woman having a panic attack, but when officers showed up, they found the 22-year-old Pacheco with a gunshot wound to her upper body.
Pacheco later died from her injuries.
RELATED: Woman shot, killed by pedestrian in Oceanside
Police say Pacheco was driving with friends when there was an apparent argument with an unknown man walking on the street. As they drove off, police say the man shot at the car, hitting Pacheco. Police are still looking for the suspect, identified as a 25-year-old Oceanside resident Vicente Huerta.
Police noted Huerta is a known gang member.
The school broke the news to parents and students on Sunday and has been offering counseling for everyone, especially for the kids asking about their teacher.
To keep Pacheco's memory alive, the school will dedicate and name their garden after the beloved teacher.
There is a GoFundMe page to help Pacheco's family with her funeral expenses. If you'd like to donate, click here.
