Family IDs house-sitting woman killed when driver crashes into Modesto home
The family of a woman killed Tuesday, June 9, while house sitting in Modesto has identified her.
Carla Zepeda is described as a caring and generous person who always put others first.
“She spent her life helping family members and friends, and she died while helping friends by house and dog sitting for them,” according to a GoFundMe page.
Zepeda was killed when a car crashed into the home she occupied and ignited a fire. Zachariah Knobel, 20, was arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter, felony DUI, evading police and driving on a suspended license. His license was suspended due to a prior, and still open, reckless-driving case.
Knobel was pursued by the California Highway Patrol after being observed speeding and failing to yield first on Standiford Avenue, then on McHenry Avenue before turning onto Robin Hood Drive. He crashed at high speed into the home on Tuxford Lane and was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“Carla always cared deeply for others, and she touched many lives with her kindness,” the fundraiser reads. “Any support, donations and prayers would mean so much to our family as we navigate this heartbreaking loss.”
This story was originally published June 14, 2026 at 3:06 PM with the headline "Family IDs house-sitting woman killed when driver crashes into Modesto home."
.jpg)