Riza’s life was a story of resilience, ambition, and the endless pursuit of happiness. Born in the Philippines on January 12, 1985, to parents Mirna and Dennis Tony, she was the middle child in a large family of seven siblings. Even as a young girl, she stood out—athletic, curious, and intelligent. She loved basketball and soccer, often impressing those around her with her energy. Science fascinated her, particularly the small classroom experiments with insects that sparked her curiosity.

At age 10, her life changed dramatically when her family migrated to the United States, settling in Las Vegas, Nevada. Adjusting to a new culture wasn’t easy, but the tight-knit Filipino community offered comfort. Soon, Riza discovered new passions—especially ice hockey, which became her favorite sport. Her enthusiasm spilled into social media, where she posted frequently about her disappointment during off-seasons.

Riza’s magnetic personality made her a natural social butterfly. She loved cooking, fashion, and television shows, which influenced her dream of entering the entertainment industry. Determined to make a name for herself, she pursued acting and modeling in Las Vegas. She landed small roles in Conspiracy Theory (2016) and the pilot episode of 702, and she worked as a spokesmodel for CES. But like many aspiring stars, she struggled to secure steady opportunities.

To support herself and her family, Riza worked as a cocktail waitress for nearly a decade. Still, she never let go of her bigger ambitions. Through discipline and persistence, she eventually transitioned into entrepreneurship. After years of saving, she proudly launched her own salon—Garden Nailed and Lash—in Las Vegas. Social media became her marketing tool, and with her striking presence, she built a loyal client base. She wasn’t just a business owner; she became an icon of self-made success in her community.

Her friends and customers called her a “Bosswoman”—a title she carried with pride. Behind the glitter, however, Riza faced challenges that few knew in detail. She was a single mother of three children from a previous relationship. Balancing multiple jobs and parenting was exhausting, but she never let her children go without. Determined to protect them, she enrolled them in self-defense classes, teaching them resilience just as she lived it.

It was through fitness and shared ambition that she met Stephen Robert Evans, a 41-year-old American entrepreneur who bred pit bulls and French bulldogs. At first, their relationship seemed picture-perfect—sweet, romantic, and supportive. Riza’s family, though hesitant because of Evans’ tattoos and past, eventually welcomed him. The two even had a child together, and for a time, happiness seemed within reach.

But the bliss did not last. Tensions grew as Stephen became consumed with conspiracy theories, often posting online about government control, election fraud, and anti-vaccine beliefs. Friends noticed his behavior change. Arguments between the couple escalated, sometimes turning physical. Despite reconciliation attempts, the relationship spiraled into abuse.

Riza found the courage to leave, moving with her children to stay with relatives. She sought a restraining order after repeated threats from Evans, who warned that if he couldn’t have her, no one else would. Court records later revealed he had a criminal history, including charges of burglary and attempted murder, though dismissed.

By early 2023, their disputes spilled into court, with both facing assault charges after a heated confrontation. A custody battle over their child followed, with judges imposing strict conditions for exchanges in public spaces. Despite legal boundaries, Evans’ resentment grew.

On June 16, 2023, Riza’s worst fears came true. While at her salon, Evans abducted her in broad daylight. Witnesses tried to intervene, but Evans overpowered them and drove off. Hours later, SWAT surrounded his home after he refused to release her. Negotiators managed to secure the safety of their child and two other women present, but by the time they entered, it was too late.

Inside, they discovered the lifeless body of Riza. She had been strangled. Evans had taken his own life with a gun.

The tragedy shocked the Las Vegas community and devastated Riza’s family. Friends remembered her not just as a businesswoman but as a devoted mother who worked tirelessly for her children. Her salon became a place of mourning, with loved ones gathering to celebrate her life and legacy.

Her death highlights the silent battles many women face when leaving abusive relationships. Despite her strength, determination, and attempts to move on, Riza became another victim of intimate partner violence.

For those who knew her, Riza will always be remembered as a woman who loved deeply, fought hard, and left behind an inspiring legacy of courage and resilience. Her children, now under the care of her family, carry the torch of her strength into the future.

Riza’s story is both heartbreaking and a sobering reminder: leaving can be the most dangerous time for victims of abuse. And yet, her life—filled with ambition, love, and sacrifice—remains a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.