Naples Manor community holds memorial service for woman killed outside home

Reporter: Zoe Warner
Published: Updated:

Family and friends gathered to honor Emily Ruiz, who was tragically killed outside her house on Texas Avenue last week.

Attendees wore pink, her favorite color, to pay tribute to the 20-year-old in a heartfelt memorial.

“I love her. And without her, I don’t know what I’ll do. The other half of my life is missing,” said Ruiz’s mother.

Ruiz’s uncle shared fond memories of her, saying, “Emi loved her siblings, especially the little ones. Her smile is beautiful. She was my ‘flaquita.’ She was beautiful and so kind and loving to those who were the same to her. Super helpful whenever anyone asked her for a favor. She loved the beach.”

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office announced an arrest in connection to her homicide. Authorities have charged 22-year-old Gael Garcia-Castro with second-degree murder.

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