A beloved Raleigh teacher is being remembered for her kindness and dedication after she was tragically killed during a home break-in over the weekend.
Still on the phone with dispatchers
Police say Zoe Welsh, a science teacher at Ravenscroft School, called 911 around 6:33 a.m. Saturday from her home on Clay Street in North Carolina, reporting that a man had broken in.
While she was still on the phone with dispatchers, the suspect began attacking her. Officers arrived to find Welsh with life-threatening injuries. She was rushed to the hospital, where she later died.
Authorities have charged 36-year-old Ryan Camacho with murder and felony burglary, according to ABC7. Police say there is no indication that Camacho and Welsh knew each other. The investigation remains ongoing, and Camacho is expected to make his first court appearance Monday.
Welsh was more than a teacher to those who knew her.
She served as chair of the science department at Ravenscroft School, where colleagues described her as a cornerstone of the community.
“Her loss is deeply felt by all of us who had the privilege of working with her and learning in her classroom,” the school said in a statement, adding that grief counseling and support resources will be available for students and staff returning from winter break.
Cared for her students
Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce expressed his condolences, saying, “I am deeply heartbroken for this mother, friend, and mentor to many in our community, and for the unimaginable trauma her family must endure. We extend our deepest sympathy to Ms. Welsh’s family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Former students say Welsh made a lasting impact. “She really cared for her students,” said Calysa Sauls, who took AP Biology with Welsh. “She definitely was one of those teachers who was passionate about the subject that she taught.” Sauls added, “To hear that she died in this horrific way, it’s heartbreaking.”
As details emerged about Camacho’s extensive criminal history, including more than 20 prior arrests and a recent case dismissed after a mental competency hearing, many former students and community members began asking how this could have happened.
“Wasn’t something done? This could have been prevented,” Sauls said.
“I’ve seen so many comments saying she’s literally the sweetest. She had a great soul, and that is very much true.”
Welsh’s death has also shaken friends who live nearby.
Childhood friend Lisa Ginger said the tragedy changed how she thinks about safety. “I set my alarm for the first time in about six months last night,” she told WRAL.
Flowers now line the area outside Welsh’s home, a quiet tribute to a woman remembered for leading with love, compassion, and care.
While questions remain about how this tragedy unfolded, those who knew Zoe Welsh say her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched.
