Victim in deadly home invasion a 'guardian angel' and 'hero' says family

ORLANDO, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Authorities continue to search for persons of interest in a deadly home invasion in Orange County, in which 20-year-old Alex Correa lost his life.

The grandmother of the victim’s niece and nephew sat down with FOX 35, telling us her grandchildren were with Alex in his final moments, and the only reason they’re still alive, is because of him.

“I basically owe him my life, because my life wouldn't be worth very much right now if I had lost any of them,” said Yvonne Rodriguez.

Deputies say there were other people in the house when intruders came in. Rodriguez says those people included her daughter and two grandchildren, the sister-in-law, niece and nephew of Alex Correa.

“Just in those few moments, he went to his bedroom, put my four-year-old grandson into the closet, told him to stay in the closet and he locked the bedroom door behind him before turning around and trying to fight off the intruders that came into his mother's home.”

Correa was the only one hurt in the invasion. Earlier this week, Crimeline released new photos, offering a $5000 reward for anyone who knows the man and woman pictured, considered people of interest or for anyone who recognizes the black Nissan Altima, believed to be used by the intruders.

The family created a Go Fund Me page to help with funeral expenses for Alex, the man they now call their guardian angel.

“Because of his snap judgement, that didn't happen and for that he's a hero.”

A mass for Alex is planned for Saturday.

Crimeline is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest or arrests.  Anyone with information is asked to call 800-423-TIPS (8477).