Family of Slain Pasadena Coach Finds Justice and Purpose After Killer's Sentencing

Ivan Ramirez's children continue his legacy through coaching and playing the sports he loved.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Nearly two years after a car theft turned deadly on Easter Sunday, the family of beloved Pasadena softball coach Ivan Ramirez is finding a sense of justice in the courtroom and a sense of purpose on the diamond. The juvenile suspect in Ramirez's 2024 shooting has reportedly accepted a plea deal, resulting in a 10-year prison sentence. Ramirez's children, including his son Manny who has become a top hitting instructor in Texas, are honoring their father's legacy through the sports he dedicated his life to.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic impact of violent crime on a local community, as well as the resilience and determination of a family to carry on their loved one's life work. The Ramirez family's continued involvement in youth sports demonstrates the power of mentorship and the importance of community-based programs.

The details

In April 2024, Ivan Ramirez, a well-known figure in the local sports community, died weeks after he was shot while attempting to stop his vehicle from being broken into. The then 15-year-old suspect arrested in June 2024 has now accepted a plea deal and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. While the court case marks the end of a legal chapter, Ivan's children are ensuring their father's influence on the game of softball and baseball continues. His eldest son, Manny Ramirez, has transitioned from a promising collegiate playing career into one of the premier hitting instructors in Texas, managing his father's original organization and training over 50 clients. The youngest of the Ramirez children, Ivanney, is currently a junior at Ursuline College, where she serves as the starting second baseman for the softball team.

  • In April 2024, Ivan Ramirez was shot and killed.
  • In June 2024, a 15-year-old suspect was arrested.
  • On February 5, 2026, the juvenile suspect accepted a plea deal and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The players

Ivan Ramirez

A well-known Pasadena softball coach who was killed in 2024 while attempting to stop his vehicle from being broken into.

Manny Ramirez

Ivan Ramirez's eldest son, who has transitioned from a promising collegiate playing career into one of the premier hitting instructors in Texas, managing his father's original organization and training over 50 clients.

Ivanney Ramirez

Ivan Ramirez's youngest child, who is currently a junior at Ursuline College, where she serves as the starting second baseman for the softball team.

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What’s next

The Ramirez family plans to continue honoring Ivan's legacy through their involvement in youth sports programs and coaching initiatives in the Pasadena community.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the importance of community-based mentorship programs and the resilience of families who are determined to turn their personal loss into a positive impact on the lives of young athletes. The Ramirez family's commitment to carrying on Ivan's legacy is an inspiring example of how sports can bring healing and purpose in the face of senseless violence.