45-Year-Old New York Man Found Decapitated At Home, Girlfriend’s Teen Son Arrested

Last Updated:October 07, 2025, 12:57 IST

Police found the 45-year-old victim dead in the bathroom, his head severed from his body and a knife was still lodged in his neck.

A 45-year-old sanitation worker was brutally decapitated inside a Staten Island home in New York. (Photo: X)

A 45-year-old New York City Sanitation Department worker was brutally killed and decapitated inside a Staten Island home on Monday in what NYPD police describe as a shocking domestic attack involving his girlfriend’s teenage son.

Police rushed to a residence on Cary Avenue in West Brighton shortly after 4:20 p.m. following a distressing 911 call reporting a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers found the 45-year-old victim dead in the bathroom, his head severed from his body. A knife was still lodged in his neck, according to police sources.

What do we know about the case?

The victim’s girlfriend’s 19-year-old son, who reportedly has a long history of mental health problems, was arrested at the scene but had not been formally charged as of Monday night.

Sources said the teen’s younger sister returned home from school and was told by her brother that he had “done something bad.” She followed a trail of blood through the house before finding the body in the bathtub, prompting the emergency call.

What do we know about the victim?

The victim, who had been nearing retirement, was described by friends as a kind and generous man. He had been placed on disability due to severe vision loss but remained active and was planning for a peaceful retirement.

Close friends Louis and Donna Ortiz, who had known him for years, said they were devastated after seeing their friend’s home on the evening news. “He didn’t deserve this,” said Louis as quoted by New York Post. “He was just about to retire and live his life. He was easy-going – the nicest guy in the world.”

The victim had been in a relationship with his girlfriend for nearly six years. Friends said the couple often struggled with family tensions involving her children but were seen together in recent weeks, appearing content.

According to those close to the family, the teenage suspect had long battled mental health challenges and was known to have emotional outbursts. “The boy was always going through stuff in school. Mental health issues. The city’s got to do more,” said Louis Ortiz.

Police continue to investigate the case, reviewing the family’s history of domestic incidents. The teenager remains in custody as authorities determine the charges.

About the Author

Shuddhanta Patra

Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public…Read More

Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public… Read More

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