HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Authorities in Mercer County are investigating a horrific act of domestic violence that left three people dead — including a 10-year-old girl — in what officials are calling a double murder-suicide.
The tragedy unfolded early Thursday morning on Henry Street in Hamilton Township, where police responded to a 911 call around 4 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered the bodies of Claribel Torres, her 10-year-old daughter Evangelina Velasquez, and Torres’ boyfriend, Fernando Abel, all fatally shot inside the home.
According to preliminary findings from the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Abel is believed to have shot Torres and her daughter before turning the gun on himself.
“Our community is grieving an unimaginable tragedy involving the untimely deaths of three people, including a 10-year-old girl,” said Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin in a statement. “On behalf of Hamilton Township, I extend my prayers to their family members, friends, and neighbors.”
Mayor Martin also thanked Mercer County officials and the Hamilton Township School District for providing grief counseling to students, staff, and community members affected by the tragedy. He emphasized the importance of seeking help for those experiencing domestic abuse, urging anyone in need to contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Prosecutor Janetta Marbrey confirmed that investigators are treating the case as a domestic-related incident that ended in a murder-suicide. The investigation is ongoing.
The loss of young Evangelina Velasquez, a student in the local school district, has sent shockwaves through the community. School officials have mobilized crisis counselors to support grieving classmates and staff.
“This kind of senseless violence is devastating,” said one Hamilton Township resident who knew the family. “They were kind, loving people, and that little girl had her whole life ahead of her.”
As residents grapple with the pain of this tragedy, officials are calling on the public to watch for signs of domestic abuse and reach out to those who may be in danger.
Further details, including funeral arrangements and opportunities for community support, are expected to be shared by the family in the coming days.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available 24/7 by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or by visiting thehotline.org.