Family mourns loss, seeks community help

The Piña family is now mourning their lost family members, and are taking care of those left behind due to the tragic murders of Rosa and Pepe Piña in Lufkin.
After a 20-hour search, Terrance Barnes, 31, of Center was been arrested and charged on Thursday, July 26 for the murders of Rosa and Pepe Piña
Following Barnes’ arrest, he reportedly confessed to officers.
Family members are now left to pick up the pieces, and Jennie Piña is responsible for her sister Rosa’s children. With that being the case, she is looking for all the help that she can get, in part by way of donations from the community.
“If they could donate, we need help with the kids. They’re going to me, and so I need help with school clothes and things afterwards, and help with the funeral costs,” said Jennie Piña.
Through it all, Jennie Piña feels that law enforcement did what was necessary to get the job done, and to capture Barnes.
“[Law enforcement] handled it very well, I think they did a terrific job,” said Piña.
Law enforcement officials searched deep in woods not very far from where the murders took place, and were finally able to locate Barnes hiding under a log.
Jennie Piña remembers her siblings great love of family, and how they cared for others.
“My brother was very smart, and loving and he always cared for others. So did Rosa, they both had big hearts and they cared a lot for their family. Family always came first for them.”
Funeral services for both Rosa and Pepe Piña were held at Watson Funeral Home on Monday morning July 30.
Donations may be made through Bankcorp South by way of the Rosa and Pepe Piña Memorial Fund.
See page 5A of today’s edition of The Light and Champion for obituary information about Rosa and Pepe Piña.