GILBERT, Ariz. — There is a $7,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Rachel Hansen's killer. It's been more than two years since the 19-year-old was shot while sleeping in her Gilbert apartment.
Her passion for saving animals lives on as her family is hoping it will help to lead to someone bringing forward a break in her case.
“Tragically, Rachel was shot and killed in her apartment two years ago, it was June 4 of 2022,” shared Kim Hansen, Rachel’s mom. “We're hoping and praying in the future that we find out something and we're able to bring justice for Rachel.”
In June 2022, Rachel just moved into a new apartment in Gilbert off South Coronado Road off Santan Village Parkway. She had a dream of bringing her love of horses together with business to help people find horse properties.
“That's why she moved into the apartment, she wanted to be close to home, yet independent" shared Kim. "She was cutting back on some of her clients in the horse world and wanted to start working in real estate.”
Tragedy stole this 19-year-old's dream. Inside that apartment, sleeping in her own bed is where she was shot, and Rachel is the person who called 911.
“That's my Rachel. That's how she was. If there was a problem or anything she was the first one to jump in and try to solve it. That's exactly what she did for herself,” said Kim.
Now her family is asking for your help. Silent Witness is offering a reward of $7,000 if you can help investigators find and convict her killer.
“We just believe that somebody, somewhere, knows something,” said Kim.
As her family waits for a crack in her case, their mission of doing what made Rachel happy continues.
“I just realized I needed to do something in her memory to honor her that would make her happy. She always wanted to start a rescue,” shared Kim.
That’s why her family started Rachel’s Rescue. They take in animals and care for them, hoping to find them forever homes. They do that, all in Rachel’s name.
“She was just, she had such a beautiful heart, such a giving heart. She was always helping other people,” said Kim.
Now Rachel continues to help through Rachel’s Rescue after her untimely passing. Her family hopes keeping her name and case in the forefront will lead to justice for their beautiful, young daughter, sister, and friend.
Gilbert Police shared in part, “This case continues to be of utmost priority for the Gilbert Police Department. We understand how difficult lengthy investigations can be on the families and friends of victims, as well as our community…"
You can remain anonymous by sending in a tip about Rachel’s case through Silent Witness by calling 480-WITNESS.
The best way you can support Rachel’s Rescue is through adoption. You can visit: rachelsrescue2022.com for more details.
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