Fundraiser Launched to Support Murdered Mother of Four
MendoLocal.News has verified the fundraiser with the family
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help the family of 31-year-old Josepha Littlewolf Thunderheart Basurto, who was found dead July 10 in a pickup truck on Rifle Range Road northwest of Covelo in what authorities are investigating as a homicide.
The fundraiser, organized by Basurto’s mother, Sharlisa Mountainlion Unca Sam and her aunt, Shelly Minthorn, seeks to raise $8,000 to help cover funeral expenses, travel, lodging and meals for family members traveling from Utah. The family also hopes to attend future court proceedings as the criminal case moves forward.
Basurto leaves behind four children between the ages of 4 and 13. She is survived by her mother and two sisters, Sadacia, 34, and Kashya, 27. Her father Joseph Littlewolf Basurto was murdered in 1995.
According to her mother, Basurto spent parts of her childhood in both Covelo and Utah, where she lived with her grandparents. She learned to shear sheep and helped to raise horses. She became known for her ability to train horses to bow. She also enjoyed basketball and was an accomplished powwow and California Native dancer.
“She was so caring and giving,” her mother said. “Even in her hard times, she was always willing to help everyone.”
Her mother said Basurto deeply loved her children, her sisters, and her extended family.
“We didn’t have an easy life, but we made it happen with what we had,” she said. “We have big hearts, and we love each other.”
The family said they are still searching for answers about the circumstances surrounding Basurto’s death.
Donations to the GoFundMe will help the family with funeral expenses and allow relatives to return to Mendocino County for future court hearings.
The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the homicide. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office.