The tragic death of Catina Rose Salarno—an 18-year-old college freshman, in 1979 is still causing her family a lot of pain. But her mom and her two sisters have turned their tragedy into strength—fighting relentlessly for the rights of crime victims all over California.
Catina was killed on her first day of college at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, by her former boyfriend Steven Burns, who had once been a welcome member of the Salarno family. After she ended their relationship, Burns lured her to a secluded area on campus under the pretense of saying goodbye. He then pulled out a gun and shot her in the back of the head. Burns was later convicted of second-degree murder.
But instead of staying broken, her mother and sisters rose from the pain. So where are they now, decades later? What became of the women who refused to stay silent? Let’s find out in this article.
Catina’s mother Harriet Salarno: From Mother to Movement Leader
Harriet Salarno, Catina’s mother, turned her unimaginable loss into advocacy. Harriet, a dental hygiene graduate from the University of Southern California, co-founded Crime Victims United of California after her daughter’s murder. The organization offers support and legal assistance to crime victims and lobbies for victims’ rights legislation. Harriet serves as the Chairperson of the group and continues to be active in its daily operations.
She now lives in Sacramento, California, and has been a leading voice in many efforts to keep the death penalty in California. She has become a strong voice for victims through her work and has spoken out at many public events and hearings. As a constant presence in the lives of her daughters and grandchildren, Harriet remains close to them even though her husband Michael Salvatore Salarno has died.
Catina’s sister Regina Salarno-Novello: A Life of Care and Strength
Regina Salarno-Novello, the middle sister, took a different but still important path. She wanted to become a nurse and finished her education at St. Mary’s College, Samuel Merritt College of Nursing, and Aspen University, where she also got her Master’s degree.She spent several years in leadership at Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, where she served as Senior Manager of Clinical Operations for outpatient services until 2022.
Regina lives in Windsor, California. She is a devoted mother to her daughter, Alyssa Rose and her son, Brayden Novello. Though she keeps her personal life private, Regina’s dedication to her family and her career reflects the resilience that runs through the Salarno family. Her son Brayden has spent time at Camp Pendleton, signaling a commitment to service that mirrors his family’s legacy.
Both Regina and her younger sister Nina have remained deeply involved in the ongoing legal efforts surrounding Steven Burns’s imprisonment. Together with their mother, they continue to advocate against Burns’ potential parole, attending hearings and ensuring their sister’s voice is never forgotten.
Catina’s Sister Nina Salarno: Turning Tragedy into Justice
Nina Salarno, Catina’s youngest sister, was only 14 when Catina died. Deeply affected by the tragedy, Nina pursued a path that would lead her into the world of criminal justice. She graduated from Dominican University of California with a degree in Legal Studies, then earned her law degree from New College of California in 1992.
Nina began her legal career as a sexual assault prosecutor and later focused on domestic violence cases in Sacramento County. Her personal experience with loss gave her a unique perspective and deep commitment to her work. Since 2002, she has run her own law office, fiercely advocating for vulnerable clients.
Nina is also a long-standing executive board member of Crime Victims United of California. She played a major role in the passage of Marsy’s Law, the California Victims’ Bill of Rights. In 2023, Nina was appointed as District Attorney in Modoc County, California. Her recent work includes participating in events like the CR 36 Victims’ Rights Week Proclamation and Proposition 36 Progress updates.
In her personal life, Nina is married to her husband Jim, with whom she lives in Auburn, California. The couple shares their home with two dogs and maintains a close relationship with Nina’s daughter, Lexi, from a previous relationship. Lexi graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2024 and is currently in a committed relationship with Ryan Miller. Nina frequently shares family milestones and advocacy work through social media.
Catina Salarno’s family will never be the same after what happened to her that September night in 1979. But Harriet, Nina, and Regina have not forgotten about her in the years since. Their dedication to fairness has not only honored Catina’s life, but it has also helped many others.
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Their story is one of strength and taking action. The Salarno women have built a legacy of advocacy through Crime Victims United of California and their own careers that goes far beyond their own tragedy. They’ve made it easier for other families who have lost a loved one to get help and given victims a stronger voice in California’s justice system.
Their journey goes on. Harriet is still working in the legislature and advocating for causes. Nina juggles her job as a district attorney with spending time with her family and continuing to help people. Regina is still helping her family and community even though she is no longer working as a manager.
Because of how strong the Salarno women were, we remember that change is possible even after terrible losses. Their story is no longer just about their own grief; it is now a way to find justice, support, and love that lasts.
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The strength of the Salarno women reminds us that even in the wake of the most devastating losses, change is possible. Their story has become more than a tale of personal grief—it is a roadmap for justice, support, and enduring love.
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Catina Salarno’s Ex-Boyfriend and Killer: Where is Steven Burns Now?
