San Antonio, TX (August 2025) — Heartbreak has gripped a San Antonio family after Jeanette Espitia, 33, was struck and killed while walking home with her child along Southeast Military Drive. The tragedy, which unfolded late last week, not only claimed Jeanette’s life but also that of her unborn son, lovingly called “JJ”, whom she was just weeks away from delivering.
Authorities confirmed that Jeanette was nearly eight months pregnant when the crash occurred. Despite immediate emergency response, neither she nor her unborn child survived. Her young child, who was with her at the time of the incident, was not physically harmed but now faces the devastating loss of a mother.
A Mother Remembered
Jeanette leaves behind three young children, whose lives have been forever altered by the tragedy. Known as a devoted mother and a loving presence in her community, Jeanette’s sudden death has sent shockwaves among family, friends, and neighbors.
Her brother, Jesse Espitia, is now stepping in to raise the children while grappling with unimaginable grief. For Jesse, the loss of Jeanette is especially devastating — in just three years, he has also buried his mother, father, and two brothers.
“These are my babies now, and I gotta be strong for them,” Jesse shared. He described his sister as his best friend, a woman who always put her children first and fought hard to provide them with love and stability.
A Cycle of Loss
The Espitia family has endured an extraordinary string of losses in a short span of time. Friends of the family say that Jesse’s resilience has been tested repeatedly, yet he continues to push forward, now taking on the role of father to his nieces and nephews.
“He’s lost almost everything, but he refuses to let these kids feel abandoned,” a close family friend remarked. “Jeanette would be proud of him.”
Community Support and Call for Safety
The tragedy has renewed calls for improved pedestrian safety along Southeast Military Drive, a busy roadway where accidents involving walkers are not uncommon. Community members and advocacy groups have urged city officials to consider additional crosswalks, lighting, and speed enforcement to protect families in the area.
A fundraiser has since been launched to support Jeanette’s children and help Jesse provide for them during this difficult transition.
A Family’s Unbreakable Bond
Though Jeanette’s life was cut short, her legacy endures through her children and the family members determined to carry her spirit forward. As Jesse put it, “I lost my sister, but I gained three kids who need me more than ever. I’ll honor her by giving them the love she gave every single day.”
Jeanette Espitia will be remembered not only as a mother but as a symbol of resilience, love, and sacrifice — her memory forever cherished by those who knew her best.