‘Lots of tears shed over this case’: Mercedes Losoya case leaves lasting impact for all involved

SAN ANTONIO – Some describe it as one of the most severe child abuse cases witnessed in Bexar County.

In 2022, 5-year-old Mercedes Losoya died from what was called “extreme physical abuse.” For at least three weeks, she was tortured at the hands of her mother Katrina Mendoza and Mendoza’s boyfriend Jose Ruiz.

In March, horrifying details were heard and seen during the trial for Ruiz.

Ruiz was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison. Mendoza was given a 40-year plea deal after she testified against Ruiz.

The latest Texas Crime Stories episode takes a look at this case and speaks to those directly involved, including Losoya’s grandmother and aunt who tried to remove both her and her sister away from their mother by calling Child Protective Services.

Prosecutors also sat down for the first time to talk about the case and how they prepared for trial.

The full episode is in the video player above and can also be found on KSAT Plus and KSAT’s YouTube page.

Also on Texas Crime Stories:

• ‘I will do whatever it takes’: A mother’s year-long fight for survival and justice after brutal attack
• ‘Haven’t provided everything yet’: Defense awaiting all evidence to be turned over in death penalty case
• Betrayed Justice: The murder of Jasmine Williams