Uptown Assemblywoman Carmen De La Rosa On Tragic Death Of Yuberkis Paulino

A man allegedly stabbed his former girlfriend to death on Tuesday before stabbing himself and leaping to his death from her sixth-floor apartment in Washington Heights, New York.

Pablo Castro, 46, was discovered dead with multiple self-inflicted stab wounds on a second-floor balcony in a building on Wadsworth Avenue just before 8 a.m. on Tuesday. Authorities checked the apartment and found Castro’s 50-year-old estranged girlfriend, Yuberkis Paulino, dead from multiple stab wounds.

“Our community is saddened to have learned the tragic news of what appears at this time to be a murder-suicide case that occurred right here in our back yard. First and foremost, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of those lost in this unthinkable tragedy as they mourn an irreparable loss. We must work harder to eradicate the epidemic of Domestic Violence that each year takes the lives of women in our city and state at the hands of senseless violence. This act in particular reminds us that domestic violence, mental distress, and suicide are preventable with increased mental health services and resources for our already underserved community. I look forward to continue to work with advocates to ensure prevention through services, hotlines, and education so that what has been reported to be triggered by domestic violence especially against women no longer exists.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Yuberkis Paulino in this very difficult time.

We take a firm stance against Domestic Violence and highlight for victims in need free resources in our community.” said Assemblywoman Carmen De La Rosa.

“Heartbreaking incidents like this are all too common today, dramatically impacting friends and family and fellow members of the community, especially those left behind,” says, Alan Ross, Executive Director of Samaritans Suicide Prevention Center in NYC. “Psychologists tell us that violence expressed outwardly is homicide, violence expressed inward is suicide, and there is a thin line between the two; which reminds us to take all talk of violence and suicide seriously, provide support to those in distress and, if in doubt, seek help from mental health professionals.”

“I’m extremely sad and upset to hear about this news so early in the year. This is a clear indication that patriarchy and male supremacy are still alive in our country. There are many men who see women as their property and feel that they can take away their lives. My condolences primarily to the victim’s family; although in this case we also acknowledge the pain of the perpetrator’s family. Let us use this case to renew our commitment to end all sorts of violence against women; to cultivate healthier relationships with our family and friends; and to enjoy health, love of life, and prosperity.” said Rosita Romero, Executive Director of Dominican Women Development Center.

Assemblywoman De La Rosa points out that “In addition, as we continue to battle the stigmas associated with mental health, we know the stress of the holidays can be overwhelming for many. Suicide is preventable and there is help here.”

The following hotlines are available 24/7. Find one that works for you or someone who needs help:

• The NYC Well hotline (1-888-NYC WELL) provides access to immediate help and support services.
• Samaritans hotline (1-673-3000) provides confidential emotional support and someone to talk to.
• Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline (1-800-942-6906) provides referrals for victims of domestic violence and abuse.
• NYC Anti-Violence Project (1-212-714-1141) provides support to victims of violence in the LGBTQ and HIV-affected community.
• Safe Horizon hotline (1-800-621-HOPE) provides comprehensive support to victims of abuse, sexual assault and domestic violence.

Read more article about Domestic Violence here.