Family memorializes murdered grandmother one year after death

The family of a woman in Pueblo murdered one year ago gathered at Runyon Field to memorialize her.

Pueblo police said Susan Hernandez’ grandson, Anthony Sena, killed her and then set her home on fire to destroy the evidence. Sena, 29, is facing first-degree murder charges. Police said Sena killed Hernandez because she asked him to pay back the money he owed her.

“It was about money. Mom died over $8,500,” said Hernandez’ daughter, Brenda Lovato.

On Thursday, Hernandez’ family gathered in Runyon Field to dedicate a bench with her picture and a plaque. Her daughters, Katrina Livecchi, and Lovato said Hernandez loved to walk her dog around Runyon Field every morning. She would take water and a bag of sunflower seeds and make the short trip from her home to the bleachers to watch her grandson play baseball.

“This is special, this is where my mom would want to be,” said Lovato.

Hernandez’ family said the last year has been a nightmare. Hernandez’ violent death has torn the family apart.

“My life has totally changed, I knew it would. Because my mother was my first phone call of my day,” said Livecchi.

“We pray for justice. And for it to be a family member has been horrifying,” said Lovato.

The two women hope the new bench dedicated to their mother will be a peaceful place that they can visit to reflect on the woman who meant so much to them.

“She left her mark on all of us. A beautiful, beautiful mark,” said Livecchi.

“We will miss her forever and ever. She is in our thoughts. She is with my dad in heaven now,” said Lovato.

Sena’s trial will start November 7.