Tenant Arrested After Superintendent Found Dead in New York Apartment

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In a tragic incident in Queens, New York, a tenant has been arrested in connection with the murder of a building superintendent. The deceased, Jose Rene Portillo, was discovered under a bed, stuffed into garbage bags after he reportedly went to collect overdue rent from a tenant.

The suspect, Sandra Coto Navarro, 48, has been charged with murder, tampering with evidence, and criminal possession of a weapon. During her arrest, she remained silent but reportedly smirked in response to comments made by the victim's wife, who confronted her with accusations of wrongdoing.

Authorities reported that Portillo’s death has been classified as a homicide, caused by blunt force trauma to the head. Further investigations revealed that Navarro had a history of emotional disturbance and was alleged to have stabbed Portillo in the neck and left leg. Police are awaiting search warrants to obtain evidence from her apartment, where they hope to find the weapon used in the murder.

Portillo had worked at the apartment complex for nearly a decade, and residents described him as kind and helpful. Unfortunately, he was known to experience issues with Navarro, who, along with her partner, owed approximately $26,000 in back rent. Neighbors reported that Navarro and her partner were disruptive and often fought.

As investigations continue, family members of the victim expressed deep shock and sadness over the incident.

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