Santa Ana Mother Mourns Son Stabbed Outside Pollo Campero

A 43‑year‑old man was stabbed and killed outside a Santa Ana fast‑food restaurant last Saturday, sparking grief and questions from his mother.

Incident Details

Police reports say Christopher Abrego was killed after a verbal exchange with another man outside the Pollo Campero on Bristol Street. The exchange escalated into a physical altercation that ended with Christopher’s death.

Police Investigation

The suspect has been identified as 35‑year‑old Diego Sartori. Police stated that Christopher did not know the accused killer. Sartori was with a woman at the time of the altercation, but she was not involved, according to Santa Ana police.

Mother’s Perspective

Alicia Abrego spoke exclusively with NBC Los Angeles Thursday, grappling with grief and questions. She wanted to see the crime scene herself, hoping someone may remember seeing her son or know what led to his death. “How can somebody hurt him like that?” the mom asked.

Victim Background

Christopher lived for years with schizophrenia and other mental health challenges, which often strained their relationship. He grew up in Claremont, later settled in Bakersfield as a young adult. The family said he was a “nice and gentle person” who liked music.

Perpetrator Profile

Sartori has a long rap sheet, with most charges being drug‑related, police said. No further details about the suspect’s background were released by authorities.

Community Response

Pollo Campero released a statement, expressing its condolences to the Abrego family. The restaurant has not issued any additional comments beyond the condolence message.

Key Takeaways

• Christopher Abrego, 43, was stabbed and killed outside Pollo Campero on Bristol Street last Saturday.
• Police identified Diego Sartori, 35, as the suspect; he has a history of drug‑related charges.
• Abrego mother Alicia highlights her son’s schizophrenia and expresses deep grief and questions about the incident.

Alicia Abrego said, “I don’t understand why that happened to him. The only thing I can think of is that his mental illness affected what happened. I imagined he was without medication,” and later added, “I think that this person should pay for what he did because nothing can bring my son back. I’m living without my son.” The investigation continues as authorities seek additional witnesses and evidence.