Family remembers loved ones lost in La Mesa killings

Sunday will mark the 13th anniversary of the most brutal murders in Yuma’s history.

On June 25, 2005, two families lost Luis Rios, Adrienne Bedoya Heredia, and four children.

Kayla Siler, Luis Rios’ daughter, was 16 years old and her sister was only nine when they received the news that their father was gone.

“It has affected all of us extremely. He’s just not here anymore to see our babies being born,” said Siler.

Rios’ daughters remember him as a great dad and a big Raiders fan.

It took 12 years for justice to be served.

Preston Strong, Rios’ best friend, was found guilty of the murders.

According to one of his attorneys, Strong filed for a new trial in the days after the verdict, but the State of Arizona opposed it.

Although it was a long battle, the memory of their loved ones is still alive.

“My kids go up to him and go, ‘Hi grandpa Louie. We love you grandpa Louie.’ Every day we talk to him,” said Siler.

Siler’s family doesn’t do just that. They also head to the confluence where the Gila River meets the Colorado River on the anniversary of the murders.

“Everybody gets on their floats and we do a float down and we reminisce on everyone we miss. We get to catch up and talk because don’t always get to see each other except on this day,” said Siler.

Siler wants people to remember not only her father but Adrienne Bedoya Heredia and the children that lost their lives.

“You cannot forget about those four babies that were taken and we cannot forget about Adrienne or my dad Luis. I just want everybody to know that this is not over,” said Siler.

If you want to join Siler in remembering those lost 13 years ago, they will meet at the confluence at 11 a.m. on Sunday, June 24.