Tragedy in California: Beloved Fitness Coach Gloria Zamora and New Partner Fatally Shot — Estranged Husband Identified as Suspect

CALIFORNIA — A horrific and deeply disturbing act of violence has left two families shattered and a community reeling after beloved fitness coach and mother of seven, Gloria Zamora, was gunned down alongside her new date, 43-year-old Hector Garduno, in what police are calling a targeted and premeditated ambush carried out by her estranged husband.

The tragedy unfolded in a restaurant parking lot late Saturday evening, where Gloria and Hector had just finished dinner at a popular sushi spot. What should have been a peaceful night out quickly turned into a nightmare. According to authorities, Gloria’s estranged husband, Thomas Lizarraga, tracked the couple down, waited for them outside, and opened fire without warning.

A Night That Ended in Devastation

Both Gloria and Hector were pronounced dead at the scene. Witnesses report that the gunfire rang out in rapid succession, sending shockwaves through the restaurant and nearby businesses. It was an off-duty sheriff’s deputy who happened to be nearby that likely prevented further loss of life. Upon hearing the shots, the deputy sprang into action, confronting the armed assailant and fatally shooting Lizarraga before he could do more harm.

Authorities believe that Lizarraga had been stalking Gloria in the days leading up to the incident and may have used GPS tracking or social media to discover her location. Just days earlier, Gloria had opened up about her painful and emotionally taxing divorce on a podcast — speaking candidly about her efforts to reclaim her peace and find happiness again.

No one could have predicted that those would be some of her last public words.

A Mother, a Mentor, a Fighter

Gloria Zamora was far more than a fitness coach — she was a mentor, a friend, and a fierce advocate for women’s empowerment and personal wellness. Her journey of resilience, strength, and transformation had inspired thousands of followers both online and in real life. As a mother of seven children, Gloria balanced her personal growth with her commitment to her family, always striving to create a better future for herself and her kids.

“She was a light in so many lives,” said one longtime client and friend. “Gloria gave people hope — especially women who felt stuck or broken. She showed them how to rise.”

Her death has left a massive void, not only for her children, who now face the unimaginable pain of losing their mother, but for the countless women who looked up to her as a symbol of courage and perseverance.

Hector Garduno: A Devoted Father and Partner

Also taken too soon was Hector Garduno, a father to four daughters, who had only recently begun dating Gloria. Friends say the two shared a mutual respect and were supportive of each other’s journeys after previous relationships had ended in heartbreak.

“He was kind, humble, and a loving dad,” a family member said. “He and Gloria were just trying to build something new — something good.”

Their budding relationship, full of promise and new beginnings, was violently cut short before it could flourish.

A Call for Justice, Healing, and Support

As investigators continue to piece together the events that led to this tragedy, the focus now shifts to healing and supporting the families left behind. Gloria’s seven children and Hector’s four daughters are now without their parents — a devastating reality that no child should have to endure.

Community members are coming together to raise funds for the children and to honor the legacies of Gloria and Hector. Vigils are already being planned, and mental health professionals are offering grief support services for those impacted by the trauma.

Many are also calling for deeper conversations around domestic violence, stalking, and post-divorce safety, particularly for women trying to rebuild their lives after abusive or controlling relationships.

“This was not just a crime of passion,” said one domestic violence advocate. “This was a calculated act of control, driven by the belief that if he couldn’t have her, no one else could. We must do better to protect women in these situations.”

Honoring Their Memory

As the families of Gloria Zamora and Hector Garduno prepare to lay their loved ones to rest, the community remains united in sorrow — but also in resolve. The legacy of these two lives lost to violence will not be forgotten.

Gloria’s strength, compassion, and passion for helping others live healthier, more empowered lives will live on in the hearts of her children and the many lives she changed. Hector’s quiet strength, devotion to his daughters, and new journey of healing with Gloria will be remembered by all who knew his heart.

May they both rest in peace. 🕊️

May their families find strength.

And may we, as a society, confront the dangers of intimate partner violence with urgency, action, and compassion.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or being threatened by a former partner, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788. Help is available. You are not alone.