Texas Teen Accused in Fatal Stabbing Released on $2 Million Bail

Amaya 'Cookie' Diaz, 19, who is accused of fatally stabbing 32-year-old Caroline 'Caro' Peña, has been released from the Val Verde County Correctional Facility in Del Rio, Texas, after posting a $2 million bond. Diaz was arrested on June 25 along with her sister, Kitty Mia Diaz, 21, and their friend, Kyandra Renee Faz, 21, in connection with Peña's death.

Diaz's release was secured after her family paid $200,000 to a bail bond company, which typically charges around 10 percent of the total bond amount. A representative for El Amigo Bonding told the New York Post that specific details surrounding the bond posting are confidential between the family and the company. The representative also indicated that "problems will happen" and that the Diaz family "has to lie low."

The three suspects were taken into custody on the same day as the alleged slaying. Police noted in a complaint that both Kitty Diaz and Amaya Diaz had showered before being placed in handcuffs, and their hair was still wet. Footage of their arrest showed the suspects smiling.

According to a criminal complaint, surveillance footage from Faz's residence captured Peña arriving in a black Dodge pickup truck. Shortly after, a black Chrysler 300 arrived, from which Amaya and Kitty Diaz exited to confront Peña. Amaya Diaz allegedly approached Peña holding an object believed to be a knife. The footage reportedly shows Amaya striking Peña in the back, causing visible bleeding. Kitty Diaz and Faz then allegedly joined the assault before the four women separated.

Peña was initially taken to a local hospital before being transferred to a hospital in San Antonio due to the severity of her injuries. She died hours later, leaving behind five children, aged three to 16. Two of Peña's children have autism and are now being cared for by relatives.

The Diaz sisters have not yet entered pleas to their charges of murder and tampering with evidence. Faz has pleaded not guilty and remains in custody on a $5.2 million bond. Faz is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on December 11. Amaya Diaz's arraignment is set for November 4. Her bond had previously been lowered from $5 million to $2 million. Kitty Diaz's bail was also lowered, and her next court date has not yet been scheduled.