A tragedy shook the Boca Chica community after news broke of the brutal murder of Daniela Sandoval, a young woman just 18 years old, at the hands of her 40-year-old brother-in-law, Endri Alonso. The crime occurred inside the family home, where the victim was savagely attacked with a farming tool known as a “pica.”

According to preliminary reports and statements from family members, Alonso had previously displayed inappropriate behavior toward Daniela, allegedly sexually harassing her on previous occasions. At the time of the crime, the young woman was babysitting her young daughter when she was surprised by the attacker.

Neighbors report that the girl ran out of the house with her face covered in blood, pleading for help, which alerted the entire community. Sadly, by the time rescuers arrived, Daniela had already died from the severe injuries inflicted by her brother-in-law.

Following the murder, Endri Alonso voluntarily surrendered to the National Police. He is currently in custody awaiting the start of legal proceedings against him. The Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed that the case will be treated as aggravated femicide, which could carry the maximum penalty provided for by Dominican law.

The community is in shock. Neighbors and friends can’t believe that a man who was active in the local church could commit such a heinous act. Feminist organizations have called for demonstrations demanding justice for Daniela and greater protections for women against gender-based violence.

This case once again highlights the urgency of strengthening prevention and response policies in situations of domestic violence, as well as the need to provide psychological and legal support to victims.