Tragedy in South Abilene: 24-Year-Old Aleisha Cabrera Killed, Steven Pena Arrested for Murder While Child Was in the Home
ABILENE, TX — A South Abilene neighborhood is reeling after a tragic domestic violence incident claimed the life of 24-year-old Aleisha Cabrera late Saturday night, June 28, 2025. The young mother was found shot to death inside her apartment while her small daughter was reportedly present during the violence. Steven Pena, 23, has been arrested and charged with First Degree Felony Murder in connection with the case.
The incident unfolded just before 11:00 p.m. at an apartment complex located in the 2600 block of Ivanhoe Lane. Officers from the Abilene Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting an injured person from a shooting. Upon arrival, law enforcement quickly secured the scene and discovered Cabrera unresponsive, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Emergency responders pronounced her deceased at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect, Steven Pena, was still on the premises when officers arrived. He was detained without incident and transported to the Abilene Police Department for questioning. Following the interview, Pena was formally charged and booked into the Taylor County Jail, where he faces a charge of First Degree Murder. No bond has been set at this time.
Perhaps most heartbreaking, the couple’s young daughter was reportedly in the home at the time of the shooting. Thankfully, she was not physically harmed. Officers immediately contacted Child Protective Services, who have since taken custody of the child as the legal process unfolds.
Aleisha Cabrera’s death is a devastating loss for her loved ones, many of whom describe her as a bright, loving, and devoted mother. Friends and family have begun expressing their grief online, sharing photos and tributes in her memory. One post reads: “She lit up every room. She was strong, beautiful, and loved her daughter more than anything. This should never have happened.”
The Abilene Police Department emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, and they are working to piece together the circumstances that led to the fatal encounter. Officers have not publicly released details about a possible motive, nor whether the incident followed a history of domestic disputes.
Police Chief Stan Standridge issued a brief statement to local media:
“This is an unspeakable tragedy, made even more heartbreaking by the presence of a young child. Our thoughts are with the family of Ms. Cabrera, and we are committed to seeking justice on her behalf.”
This case serves as another grim reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the innocent lives caught in its wake. Local advocates are encouraging anyone experiencing abuse to seek help through resources such as the Noah Project in Abilene, which offers 24-hour crisis support, shelter, and counseling.
As the community mourns, loved ones of Aleisha Cabrera are working to organize support efforts for her daughter, who now faces life without her mother.
Anyone with additional information about the case is urged to contact the Abilene Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division at (325) 676-6610 or submit anonymous tips through Abilene Crime Stoppers at (325) 676-TIPS.