Claribel Torres, 36, and Evangelina Velasquez, 10, Tragically Killed in Hamilton Township Domestic Violence Murder-Suicide: Community Stunned by Loss of Mother and Daughter as Investigation Unfolds
Hamilton Township, New Jersey — A quiet Mercer County neighborhood was shaken to its core following a devastating act of domestic violence that claimed the lives of Claribel Torres, 36, and her 10-year-old daughter, Evangelina Velasquez, inside their home on Henry Street in Hamilton Township. Authorities say the woman’s boyfriend, Fernando Abel, 38, fatally shot both Claribel and Evangelina before turning the gun on himself in an apparent murder-suicide.
The tragedy unfolded early Thursday morning, sending shockwaves through the township and leaving a community grappling with grief and unanswered questions. First responders, family members, and neighbors alike are struggling to comprehend how such a horrific loss could occur in a place known for its close-knit spirit and family-oriented atmosphere.
A Grim Discovery in the Early Hours
At approximately 5:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Hamilton Township Police were dispatched to the Torres residence following a 911 call from a concerned neighbor who reported loud noises, including what they believed to be gunshots. Officers forced entry into the home after receiving no response.
Inside, police discovered three deceased individuals. Claribel Torres and her daughter Evangelina were found in their bedrooms, both suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. Nearby, in a separate room, the body of Fernando Abel was discovered alongside a handgun. Preliminary forensic evidence and scene analysis led investigators to determine that Abel shot Torres and her daughter before taking his own life.
All three were pronounced dead at the scene.
A Community Reeling from Loss
News of the murder-suicide spread rapidly, bringing an outpouring of sorrow from neighbors, school officials, co-workers, and members of the wider community. Candlelight vigils began forming within hours. Families lined Henry Street with flowers, hand-drawn notes, photos, and stuffed animals—particularly in memory of Evangelina, whose life was just beginning.
“This is not something any community ever wants to face,” said Chief Laura Martinez of the Hamilton Township Police Department. “It is an unimaginable tragedy. Our hearts go out to the surviving family members and to everyone who loved Claribel and Evangelina.”
Evangelina Velasquez: A Young Life Full of Light
Evangelina, a vibrant 10-year-old student at George E. Wilson Elementary School, is remembered by her family as a bright, enthusiastic child who loved art, swimming, and animals. Known for her curiosity and joyful spirit, she had recently earned recognition in school for academic excellence and participated in her local community center’s swim program.
“She was my only daughter. Strong, like me,” said her father, Bladimir Velasquez, visibly emotional during a statement to the press. “She had dreams of becoming a veterinarian. She loved life. She loved people. I don’t know how I’m supposed to keep going.”
Bladimir, who shared custody of Evangelina with Claribel, had dropped his daughter off just days before the incident. He is now left to mourn not only the loss of his child but the partner he once built a life with.
Evangelina’s classmates and teachers at George E. Wilson Elementary have been devastated by the news. “She had an energy that filled a room,” her fourth-grade teacher said. “Always kind, always smiling. It’s hard to accept that she won’t be coming back.”
Claribel Torres: A Dedicated Mother and Hardworking Provider
Claribel Torres was described by friends, neighbors, and coworkers as a devoted mother who lived and worked for her child. A medical billing specialist employed by a regional healthcare company, she was known for her professionalism, determination, and positive outlook—even during life’s most difficult moments.
“Claribel was always talking about Evangelina—always. Her daughter was the center of her world,” said Marisol Delacruz, a colleague of Torres for over six years. “She would stay late at work just to make sure everything was right, and then still find time to attend school events, weekend swim meets, everything.”
Friends described Claribel as someone who was private but warm, often keeping her personal struggles to herself. Though she was in a long-term relationship with Abel, some say there were signs of strain in the partnership in recent months.
“She seemed tired lately, quieter than usual,” one neighbor recalled. “We didn’t know what was happening behind closed doors.”
Uncovering the Signs: Domestic Violence Often Hidden
Investigators believe the motive behind the attack was rooted in a long-simmering domestic conflict. While no prior reports of abuse had been filed, police are now reviewing phone records, text messages, and conversations with friends and family to learn more about the nature of Claribel and Fernando’s relationship.
Fernando Abel, a construction worker who had recently been laid off, reportedly struggled with anger management and mental health issues. According to several acquaintances, Abel had become increasingly withdrawn and controlling in recent months.
“Domestic violence doesn’t always start with physical harm,” explained Lena Morales, director of Safe Haven NJ, a nonprofit offering services to victims of abuse. “It often begins with isolation, verbal intimidation, controlling behavior. These patterns can escalate quickly, especially under financial or emotional stress.”
Advocacy groups across New Jersey are using this tragedy to raise awareness about the many unseen forms of domestic abuse. In the aftermath of this case, local hotlines have reported a rise in calls from individuals seeking guidance or assistance.
Grief Spreads Through the Neighborhood
Henry Street, normally a peaceful stretch of suburban homes, is now marked by grief. Neighbors and community members have gathered nightly at a growing memorial in front of the Torres residence. Children place flowers, candles flicker on the sidewalk, and a banner strung between trees reads: “We Remember Eva and Claribel.”
Local churches have opened their doors for community counseling and prayer. School administrators have coordinated with grief counselors to help children process the loss of their classmate.
“It’s hard to make sense of something like this,” said Pastor Joel Washington of St. Mary’s Church. “But the community has come together in love. We mourn together. We heal together.”
A Father’s New Mission
Bladimir Velasquez, though engulfed in grief, has vowed to become an advocate for victims of domestic violence in honor of his daughter and former partner. “I will not let my daughter’s life be forgotten,” he said during a vigil. “If this can happen to Claribel, it can happen to anyone. We need better resources, more awareness, and stronger support for families at risk.”
Velasquez is working with local officials to establish the Evangelina Velasquez Memorial Fund, which will support children’s mental health initiatives, domestic violence education programs, and scholarships for young girls in Mercer County.
A Town Mobilizes for Change
In response to the tragedy, Mayor Isabel Greene of Hamilton Township announced the formation of a task force dedicated to preventing family-based violence. The task force will include law enforcement, educators, healthcare workers, and community advocates who will examine current gaps in outreach and propose legislative or procedural reforms.
“This was not just a tragedy for one family. It’s a wake-up call for our entire community,” Mayor Greene said during a press conference. “We have a responsibility to do better—for Claribel, for Evangelina, and for all who suffer silently.”
In addition to the task force, the township will host a series of community forums, provide increased funding for shelters, and expand mental health services for at-risk individuals and families.
Honoring Their Lives
Funeral services for Claribel Torres and Evangelina Velasquez are scheduled for the following week at Peaceful Rest Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence in their memory.
As family, friends, and strangers mourn two beautiful lives lost far too soon, Hamilton Township stands united—not just in sorrow, but in hope. Hope that no other family endures such a tragedy. Hope that through remembrance and advocacy, lasting change can be achieved.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Contact the New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-572-SAFE (7233) or visit a local shelter. All calls are confidential.
