Fabian Gamez shot in home invasion in Tulare, California; Melissa Quinn and Raymond Garza were stabbed to death while defending their home

TULARE, Calif. — A home invasion resulted in a tragic loss for a grieving family in California.

Surveillance video from last Thursday morning shows a thief allegedly trying to break into a home on Berkeley Way in Tulare, California.

He appears to see the camera, then turns and heads towards another nearby house.

Police said 30-year-old Fabian Gamez was confronted by the owner, 58-year-old Melissa Quinn, as she tried to enter through the backyard.

Detectives said Gamez attacked Quinn with a knife, then his son, 38-year-old Raymond Garza, tried to intervene and Gamez began stabbing him.

The mother and her eldest son died from their injuries.

“It was a huge blow to the family to lose not just one, but both of them at the same time. They were our protectors and were the first to defend their family members if anything happened,” said Michael Garza, Melissa’s second son. and Raymond’s younger brother.

He said their youngest brother heard the commotion, went outside and shot the intruder.

He prevented the suspect from escaping until the police arrived.

There were more than six people in the house, including Melissa’s father, whom she was caring for, and Raymond’s children, ages 7, 9, and 19.

The two youngest children also lost their mother in 2019 and are now coping with the trauma of another tragedy.

“They are afraid my nephew will see his father die on the ground after being brutally stabbed by an intruder,” Michael said.

ABC Fresno affiliate KFSN found that Gamez has a history of run-ins with police.

Detectives believe they were canvassing the area Wednesday night.

“Detectives now believe he may have been shoplifting in the area,” explains Sgt. Rosa Moreno, Tulare Police Department.

Gamez pleaded not guilty Tuesday to two counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary under special circumstances.

Relatives of the victims say they will continue to fight for justice while honoring mother and son.

“They were the center of attention at every event they could attend. Their personalities always shined through,” Michael said.

The family is now left with only memories and heartache.

Melissa leaves behind six grandchildren and two sons.

Raymond leaves behind his three young children. He was their only living parent.

Melissa leaves behind 6 grandchildren and two sons.

Raymond leaves behind his three young children. He was their only living parent.

Family built a place GoFundMe Page to help with funeral expenses.

Gamez will appear in court again next month.