Martinez-Lopez Rafael Identified as Suspect in Grand Rapids Shooting That Killed Savanah Tierrablanca-Rubio and Teen Over Soccer Game [VIDEO]

A tragic shooting on Grand Rapids’ southwest side has claimed the lives of a 39-year-old woman and a teenage boy, authorities said. Police have identified the suspect as Martinez-Lopez Rafael, who allegedly opened fire after a dispute over a soccer game.

The victims were identified by family members as Savanah Tierrablanca-Rubio, 39, and a 14-year-old boy. The shooting occurred Tuesday evening on the property of Southwest Elementary School, near Oakland Avenue SW and Rumsey Street.

According to the Grand Rapids Police Department, officers responded around 6:37 p.m. and found both victims shot. Despite their efforts, the teenage boy was pronounced dead at the scene, and Tierrablanca-Rubio was transported to a hospital, where she later died.

“She was so selfless. She loved children,” Tierrablanca-Rubio’s sister, Angelita Tierrablanca, said. “So, when she saw children in need, she took them in.” The family described her as a mother of nine who extended care and love to children beyond her own family.

Niece Mia Tierrablanca said, “Her life did not deserve to be taken right here like that, because she was just so sweet. She played a part in so many people’s lives. People who weren’t blood to her, she made them blood.”

Police stated the shooting was sparked by a disagreement over a soccer game. “A bunch of kids were playing at the park here, and the suspect approached, asked to engage in a game of soccer. For whatever reason, he was turned away,” said Interim Police Chief Joe Trigg. “He did not like the fact that he was turned away, so a verbal altercation started, which led to the suspect pulling out a firearm and shooting that juvenile. The adult female had come to the aid, verbally, of the juvenile victim, so then she was targeted.”

Authorities confirmed that Martinez-Lopez Rafael is now in custody. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including the relationship between Tierrablanca-Rubio and the teenage victim.

The Grand Rapids community is reeling from the loss, with family members visiting the scene to say their final goodbyes and honor the life of a woman described as generous, loving, and deeply committed to her community.