July 21, 2025 Queens, NY – A horrific incident has sent shockwaves through the quiet Ridgewood neighborhood of Queens, as a 54-year-old New York City man is accused of the brutal murder of his wife and their 2-year-old daughter. The shocking events unfolded during a FaceTime call with the man's nephew, according to authorities, making an already tragic situation even more disturbing.

Double Homicide Under Investigation as Apparent Murder-Suicide

The grim discovery was made on the night of Saturday, July 19, at a residence on Forest Avenue. Police responded to a distressed call from the suspect’s nephew, who reported witnessing the unimaginable during a video call: his uncle allegedly stabbing his wife and toddler.

Upon arrival, officers found a scene of profound tragedy. The 41-year-old woman had suffered approximately 18 stab wounds to her neck and chest. Nearby, their 2-year-old daughter was found with nine stab wounds. Both victims were tragically pronounced dead at the scene.

The alleged perpetrator, who has not yet been identified publicly, was found with a stab wound to his chest. Investigators believe this wound was self-inflicted following the horrific acts. He was rushed to a local hospital where, as of Saturday, July 20, he remains in critical condition. The case is actively being investigated as a double murder-suicide.

Neighbors Grapple with Shock and Disbelief

The tranquility of Ridgewood has been shattered, leaving residents struggling to comprehend the violence that erupted next door. Many neighbors expressed utter shock, noting they had heard no prior disturbances or arguments from the apartment.

"It's shocking, you know, that it happens right next door to you," one neighbor told the New York Post, highlighting a common sentiment of unsettling proximity to the unimaginable. "I guess, you don't know who your neighbors are."

Another resident, speaking to WABC, emphasized the unusual nature of such a brutal crime in their typically peaceful community. "This isn’t normal," the neighbor stated. "You just don’t see gurneys and people filled with blood coming out of a building. That’s not normal. Not in this neighborhood."

Perhaps the most chilling account came from a third neighbor, who told The Post that, even after the horrific events, he heard the man seemingly without a care. "I was, today, in the morning, I take a shower and this guy, he was f—ing taking a shower and singing, like nothing happen, like a normal day," the neighbor recounted. "Like he singing, he starting a normal day. Singing a happy song."

Motive Remains Under Investigation

As detectives continue their painstaking work, the motive behind this devastating act remains unclear. Police have not released any details regarding a potential trigger for such extreme violence. The community, and indeed the city, awaits answers as this heartbreaking investigation unfolds.

Resources for Those in Need

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the hidden struggles many face. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please remember you are not alone. Help is available:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-SAFE (7233)
• Chat Online: Visit thehotline.org
• Text: Text “START” to 88788

If you or someone you know is in crisis or contemplating self-harm, please reach out for immediate support:

• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
• Previous Lifeline Number: 1-800-273-8255 (always remains available)

The Ridgewood community will undoubtedly take time to heal from this profound loss. As a seasoned journalist, I've covered countless tragedies, but the alleged brutality and the tender age of one of the victims in this case underscore the urgent need to address the underlying issues that lead to such devastating outcomes.

What are your thoughts on how communities can better identify and assist individuals at risk before such violence occurs? Share your perspective in the comments below.