Yoraily Santos Obituary, Death – Authorities have identified both the victim and the suspect involved in a suspected domestic murder-suicide that took place Wednesday afternoon in Brockton, Massachusetts.
Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruz confirmed that Brockton police responded to a 911 call at approximately 5:43 p.m. The call came from the landlord of a residence located at 643 North Main Street. According to the landlord, his upstairs tenant reported discovering his son and his son’s girlfriend dead inside the apartment.
When officers arrived, they found two individuals deceased. The female victim was identified as 18-year-old Yoraily Santos. She was discovered lying on the kitchen floor with multiple gunshot wounds, indicating that she was shot several times before succumbing to her injuries.
The male suspect was identified as 22-year-old Starli Roa Taveras. He was found dead nearby with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Investigators recovered a Glock 19 Gen 5 handgun equipped with an optic sight close to his body. The weapon’s magazine was empty, though a single 9mm round remained in the chamber, suggesting that the final shot was likely aimed at himself.
Police also recovered nine spent shell casings and seven projectiles from the scene, underscoring the extent of the gunfire exchanged during the tragic incident.
As the investigation unfolded, detectives spoke with individuals who knew the couple. Through these interviews, investigators learned that Starli and Yoraily had been in a relationship and that there was a documented history of domestic violence between them. This troubling background is now considered a critical element in understanding the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter.
At this time, the investigation is still ongoing, and authorities continue to collect evidence and review the timeline of events that occurred before the shooting. Law enforcement officials have not yet confirmed how long the couple had been inside the apartment before being discovered or whether any previous threats had been reported.
The case has drawn renewed attention to the dangers of domestic violence, especially among young couples. Officials emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help when abuse is suspected.
In response to the tragedy, authorities reminded the public that resources and support services are available for those experiencing domestic abuse. If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, there are hotlines and organizations ready to help, offering support, shelter, and legal assistance to those in need.
This heartbreaking event has deeply affected the Brockton community, leaving friends, family members, and neighbors in mourning as they try to understand how such a devastating loss occurred. Police are urging anyone with additional information about the couple or the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.