08/12/2026
The Boy Across the Street: Catina Salarno’s Final Day
On September 5, 1979, 18-year-old Catina Rose Salarno arrived at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, ready to begin a new chapter. A freshman studying dentistry, she had left her San Francisco home with dreams of a future she would never see.
But someone from her past had followed her.
Steven Burns had lived directly across the street from Catina’s family. Once welcomed into their home and treated almost like a second son, Burns was also Catina’s high school boyfriend. When she ended the relationship to begin college, his behavior changed. He repeatedly threatened to kill her.
On her first day of classes, Catina encountered Burns on a campus walkway. She reportedly believed it would be the last time she would have to deal with him.
It wasn't.
Burns shot Catina in the back of the head, leaving her mortally wounded. He then returned to his dorm room and watched television.
The murder weapon was never recovered, and the early evidence was largely circumstantial. Burns was initially released, but police arrested him two days later. He was ultimately convicted and sentenced to 17 years to life.
More than four decades later, Catina's story is still being fought for.
Her mother, Harriet, and sister, Nina, turned their grief into activism, helping establish Crime Victims United and becoming powerful advocates for victims' rights.
After 45 years behind bars, Burns has repeatedly sought parole. His 13th request was denied in January 2025.
Catina was only 18.
Her life ended in a moment—but her family's fight to keep her killer behind bars continues.
Have you ever experienced domestic violence? How did you make it out?
