Tragic Murder-Suicide in Hamilton Township Claims Lives of Mother and Daughter
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A devastating act of domestic violence has left the Hamilton Township community in mourning following a tragic incident on Henry Street. Early Thursday morning, authorities responded to a 911 call and discovered the bodies of 36-year-old Claribel Torres, her 10-year-old daughter Evangelina Velasquez, and Torres’ boyfriend, Fernando Abel.
According to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, preliminary investigations indicate that Abel fatally shot Torres and her daughter before taking his own life. The incident occurred inside the family’s residence, and all three individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
Evangelina, a fourth-grade student, was remembered by her father, Bladimir Velasquez, as a clever and active child who loved swimming. “My only daughter. Strong like me,” he said, expressing his profound grief over the loss.
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support from the community. Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin extended his condolences, stating, “Our community is grieving an unimaginable tragedy involving the untimely deaths of three people, including a 10-year-old girl.” He also emphasized the importance of seeking help for those experiencing domestic abuse and encouraged individuals to contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
In response to the incident, the Hamilton Township School District has mobilized crisis counselors to support grieving students and staff. Community members have been urged to remain vigilant for signs of domestic abuse and to reach out to those who may be in danger.
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Hamilton Police Division are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shootings. 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.