Tragedy in Brockton: Teen Victim and Boyfriend Dead in Apparent Murder-Suicide Amid History of Domestic Violence
BROCKTON, Mass. — June 20, 2025 — The city of Brockton is reeling from a devastating act of domestic violence that ended in a deadly murder-suicide, claiming the lives of two young adults and leaving a family and community shattered. The Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that 18-year-old Yoraily Santos and 22-year-old Starli Roa Taveras were found dead inside a North Main Street apartment on Thursday morning in what authorities describe as an apparent murder-suicide.
The grim discovery was made around midday on June 19, after Santos’ father entered the second-floor apartment at 643 North Main Street and discovered the bodies of his daughter and her boyfriend. Emergency responders and Brockton Police arrived shortly after, only to confirm what no parent should ever have to face — that Yoraily had been killed, and her alleged killer, Taveras, had turned the gun on himself.
A Scene of Violence and Heartbreak
Authorities say the scene was a horrific one. Yoraily Santos was found lying in the kitchen, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Starli Roa Taveras was located nearby, having died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A Glock 19 semi-automatic handgun was found close to his body, its magazine empty. Police also recovered nine shell casings and seven projectiles strewn throughout the apartment — stark indicators of the violence that had taken place within those walls.
Preliminary findings suggest the young couple were the only individuals present at the time of the incident. Evidence collected and statements from family members point to a volatile relationship, plagued by prior domestic violence.
A Young Life Taken Too Soon
The loss of Yoraily Santos has stunned the Brockton community. Just 18 years old, Yoraily was known among peers as a kind-hearted, bright young woman with dreams of pursuing higher education and building a better life. She had recently graduated from high school and was working part-time while exploring college options.
“She had this infectious smile and a spirit that could brighten any room,” said one of her close friends. “She deserved so much more than this. She deserved a future.”
Friends and neighbors have begun to leave flowers, candles, and handwritten notes outside the apartment building, honoring a life cut short by intimate partner violence.
A Pattern of Abuse
The relationship between Santos and Taveras, though private to many, had reportedly been marked by troubling behavior. The District Attorney’s office confirmed a documented history of domestic violence, though specific details remain under seal pending the ongoing investigation.
Experts say that this tragedy highlights the urgent need for intervention in abusive relationships, especially among young adults.
“This is not just a crime — it’s a heartbreaking example of what can happen when patterns of control, aggression, and violence go unaddressed,” said a local advocate with a domestic violence prevention nonprofit. “We must do more to educate, empower, and protect young people in our communities.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Brockton Police Department, in collaboration with the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office, is continuing to investigate the events leading up to the shooting. Authorities are working to construct a clearer timeline and gain insight into any warning signs that may have preceded the violence.
Neighbors have reported hearing loud arguing in the days leading up to the shooting, though no 911 calls had been made on the morning of the incident. Investigators are also reviewing any available surveillance footage from the area and speaking with relatives and friends of the victims.
Though the physical evidence strongly supports a murder-suicide, officials say they are taking every step to ensure a complete and thorough investigation is conducted.
Community Response and Resources
As the community mourns, city leaders and local organizations are encouraging residents to seek support and take action against domestic abuse. The Brockton Mayor’s Office issued a statement offering condolences and pledging increased support for domestic violence prevention and mental health services.
“Our hearts are with the families of Yoraily and Starli,” the statement read. “This tragedy is a sobering reminder of how deeply intimate partner violence can affect our community. We are committed to doing all we can to prevent this from happening again.”
Crisis counselors have been made available at local schools and community centers, and several candlelight vigils are being planned to honor Yoraily’s memory and raise awareness.
Final Thoughts
The deaths of Yoraily Santos and Starli Roa Taveras are a chilling reminder of the dangers of unresolved domestic violence and the fragility of young lives caught in its grip. Yoraily’s dreams, hopes, and potential were extinguished in an instant by the person who once professed to love her.
As investigators continue their work and loved ones prepare for a farewell no one ever should have to make, the community of Brockton stands in solidarity — grieving, outraged, and determined to protect others from suffering a similar fate.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org for confidential support. Help is available. You are not alone.
