KINGMAN—The mystery of how a woman died this past week at a Golden Valley home has family and friends wanting answers.
Authorities identified the victim as Jessica Orozco, 31, of Kingman.
“We want to know what exactly happened and how our beloved Jessica was killed,” said Jamie Smith, in a telephone interview with The Bee.
Orozco was found outside a Golden Valley residence on Oct. 27 suffering from a gunshot wound, according to a Mohave County Sheriff’s Office press release. She was immediately taken to Kingman Regional Medical Center where she died from her injuries.
The sheriffs office is remaining tight lipped regarding the investigation and it’s the not knowing that is troubling those close to Orozco.
“What happened? Is the person who did this under arrest? Why did this happen to Jessica?” asked Smith. “All we ask for is some answers. She has a lot of family and friends just wanting to know.”
Orozco is described by family and friends as a gift from Mother Earth.
“She was outgoing, loving and enjoyed life,” said Smith.
Orozco was working as a Range Specialist with the Natural Resources Department at the Hualapai Tribe in Peach Springs, Arizona prior to her death. She had a Master’s degree in Botany and spent her time speaking at federal management meetings all over the nation.
She is survived by her nephew, James Kitchens, whom she adopted in 2015 after Kitchens needed a guardian. Her family stated in an obituary that she was an “amazing, committed single mom whose life was so enriched by her courageous decision” to take James under her wing.
A memorial service was held Friday in Peach Springs. A second memorial is scheduled for Nov. 18 in Claremont, California at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. Orozco graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in Botany.
Photos courtesy of Facebook.
Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Gardens is NOT in Santa Ana. It is in Claremont, California 91711
I think the Sheriff’s Department is part of a coverup. After all this happened in Arizona where discrimination is rampant at all levels of government against Native Americas!!
Jessica’ friends across the country are still trying to accept that this could happen. As we begin to hear rumors that the man who shot her will only be charged with involuntary manslaughter we are further mystified? How can you shoot someone, someone who is delivering a child to their home after a celebration, how can you shoot someone and have it be called a “firearms offense” and “involuntary manslaughter” ? Jessica was a powerfully positive and loving 31 year old woman with an amazing future in front of her. What is going on this community?
Thank you for this article. The memorial on November 18th is in Claremont, CA at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden.
As a friend who called Jess a sister, I can vouch that we are seeking answers and #justiceforjessica
#plantsnotpantz Jessica Mae Orozco forever in our hearts
Someone had an important information for the investor and he was rude, kept interrupting her while she talked he just wouldn’t listen to her with the had the important information she had and he hung upon her. We all want to know why is this a tight lid case.
There is too many unanswered questions and the time lapse in the whole incident.
At the funeral I did get up talked of how strong kind, loving and humble Jessica was and I also told the big crowd that on my truck window I have “JUSTICE 4 JESSICA “.
Can you help us with a investigation investigation.
The Mohave County sheriff’s office has a history of disregarding native lives as important. Here in front of them is a chance to rectify that as Jessica gave more to the community than most. She needlessly gave her life. A strong educated civically active woman.
Cover up. I guess Jessica was guilty of being a Native American in the 21st Century! Otherwise. why is the Sheriff’s Department dragging its feet
I have never met you personally, but have you as a Facebook friend, I wish I could have met you and went exploring for plants. You will be missed, but when we are out and about we will see you in the plants.
Why is there no information?
Thank you for this article. Clarification: The November 18 memorial will be held at 2 p.m. at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden in Claremont, California.
Please write the state attorney general. We need answers and the maximum penalties to include charges against children. Two young children witnessed her death. Many of her friends and professional associates will write letters.
Wow such a beautiful young woman and her life was cut short. R.I.P. beautiful!!