The family of tragic mum-of-three Jeanette Gallegos have broken their silence after rapper J $tash allegedly killed her in front of her children before he in turn took his own life.
Tragedy unfolded in the Temple City neighbourhood of Los Angeles in California on New Year's Day after 28-year-old J $tash – real name Justin Joseph – allegedly shot dead 27-year-old Jeanette before turning the gun on himself.
The New York-born, South Florida-based rapper had reportedly been in a relationship with Jeanette at the time of the alleged murder-suicide.
Family of the victim have started a GoFundMe appeal to raise money to cover the costs of Jeanette’s funeral – and have expressed their devastation over their loss.
A statement on the GoFundMe page titled ‘Jeanette’s Funeral Expenses’ and started by Erika Chavez reads: “In Loving Memory of my sister Jeanette Gallegos. Daughter, Sister, aunt and mother above all.
“With a heavy heart my sister passed away Jan 1, 2022 . A tragic and unexpected loss for my family & nephews God has gained another angel.
“My sister was full of life, she was the sweetest most caring person, always there for everyone who needed her. Her favorite quote ‘live today because tomorrow is not promised’.
“My sister leaves behind 3 beautiful boys who will have to continue living life with what’s left, the memories created with their mommy.
“Anything helps even just sharing this post. The donations will be used for my sister’s funeral expenses. Thank you in advanced in this hard time for my family Rest in Paradise Jeanette Fly high my beautiful Angel.”
Reports emerged on Monday that Jeanette had allegedly been shot dead at the hands of her up-and-coming rapper boyfriend.
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department reported that they responded to a report of gunshots from a property that Jeanette, J $tash and Jeanette’s three children, aged seven, nine, and 11, were in.
Deputies forced their way into a locked bedroom where the bodies to the two parents were found.
Police told local radio station KFI-AM : "The female victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds, while the male victim sustained an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound."
Jeanette's sons had raised the alarm when J $tash arrived at the property and began an argument with their mother, before leading her into the master bedroom and locking the door behind him.
The three sons reportedly knocked on the door as they were concerned for their mother's safety before the sound of gunshots were heard at approximately 7am.
The worried boys called their grandmother who told them to call the police for help – with the boys running out of the house when police arrived soon after they made their call.
The boys – who are not related to J $tash – are now believed to be in the care of relatives.
Police are investigating the crime and have urged members of the public who might have information to step forward – the LA police department’s homicide bureau can be reached at 323-890-5500 or "Crime Stoppers" at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
