Daly City, CA — The community is grieving the sudden and tragic death of Trevor Magallanes, a Daly City police officer, former U.S. Air Force member, and ex-husband of Filipina actress Rufa Mae Quinto. Magallanes, 39, is believed to have died by suicide, according to sources close to the family. His passing, while yet to be formally confirmed in detail by authorities, has drawn both public sympathy and renewed concern over mental health in high-stress professions.
Though the cause of death remains unconfirmed by police, Quinto took to Instagram shortly after the incident, posting a poignant series of family photos. The images, showing Magallanes with their daughter Athena, prompted an outpouring of condolences from Filipino celebrities and fans around the world.
“Sending you so much love,” commented actress Maxene Magalona, while Christine Babao offered, “Yakap na mahigpit, Peachy.” Support also came from Alessandra de Rossi, Daniel Matsunaga, Candy Pangilinan, and Jaya, all expressing heartbreak and solidarity with the grieving family.
Magallanes and Quinto married in 2016 after meeting in the U.S., and welcomed their daughter in 2017. They separated in late 2024, a fact that Magallanes openly addressed on social media. In a candid Instagram story, he shared his emotional struggles: “My marriage has been a shit show and I am sorry for that… all that matters to me at this time is getting through the divorce as best as I can and spending time with Athena.”
His vulnerability offered a rare glimpse into the internal battles many men face during and after divorce—a topic often left unspoken. Experts say it reflects a broader pattern among fathers who juggle professional demands, emotional turmoil, and societal expectations to remain stoic.
Dr. Karen Lee, a clinical psychologist based in the Bay Area, explained, “The emotional toll of separation, especially on men in uniformed services, is profound. The expectation to ‘stay strong’ can lead to emotional suppression, which often masks deeper distress.”
Magallanes’ career in financial analysis, military service, and law enforcement made him a figure of discipline and service—yet his death has served as a sobering reminder that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of outward strength or professional role.
“This was a shock,” said a fellow Daly City officer who spoke anonymously. “Trevor showed up, did the work, and cared about his family. It’s a heavy loss for all of us.”
In response to the tragedy, local advocates are calling for improved mental health resources for veterans and first responders, pointing to data that shows elevated suicide risk in these populations.
Magallanes is survived by his 8-year-old daughter Athena, who remains at the center of the grieving process.
