A woman from Queens, Sandra Coto Navarro, 48, has been arrested for the murder of a well-liked building superintendent named Jose Portillo. She is facing charges of murder, tampering with evidence, and criminal possession of a weapon. Authorities say that Navarro and her husband owed around $24,000 in unpaid rent, and they had not paid for years. Navarro allegedly killed Portillo, 55, by hitting him on the head and stabbing him in the neck and leg. His body was discovered on January 15, 2025, hidden under a bed and wrapped in garbage bags.
Navarro was seen with a smirk on her face while being led away in handcuffs after her arrest. Police say CCTV footage showed that Navarro’s husband was home just 20 minutes before the police arrived, but he has not been charged in the case. He reportedly told the police where to find the body.
Neighbors were shocked by the incident, describing Navarro as a sweet and friendly person. They were also saddened by the death of Portillo, who was known for being a kind man who would often stop to chat with residents. Portillo had worked as a gardener before becoming the building superintendent. Many neighbors had known him for years and relied on him for help with various issues.
The medical examiner confirmed that Portillo’s death was caused by violence, and police are investigating further.
In a separate tragic incident, a man named Anthony Louis Lopez from South Carolina is facing charges for killing his sister, Lisa Rosenzweig. Lopez allegedly murdered his sister in November 2024. Police discovered her body after being called for a welfare check. The cause of death was believed to be blunt force trauma to the head. Lopez was arrested in North Carolina and brought back to South Carolina to face charges.
Lopez appeared in court, where he claimed his innocence and said he would represent himself in the case. He is facing a potential death penalty if convicted. Neighbors who knew Rosenzweig expressed disbelief and sadness, saying she didn’t deserve to die in such a way.
