In the quiet community of a New Rochelle senior apartment complex, a tragedy unfolded that ended the life of 71-year-old Helena Weinstein. On a Wednesday in September 2009, her husband of many years, Paul Weinstein, made a decision that would irrevocably alter their lives. Concerned about his wife's deteriorating health and the prospect of her moving to a nursing home, he took drastic action.
The events of that morning were stark and grim.
Paul first attempted to suffocate his wife with a pillow. When that failed, he used a World War II era handgun to shoot her in the head as she lay in her bed. After the shooting, Paul Weinstein himself contacted the authorities, calling 911 to report what he had done and express his intention to also take his own life.
When New Rochelle police arrived at the Maple Center Senior Apartments, they found a tense situation. Paul had barricaded himself in the bathroom. Through careful negotiation, officers, including Lt. Bill Childs, were able to convince him to surrender peacefully. Inside the apartment, they discovered Helena's body.
Paul Weinstein, who was 77 years old at the time, was arrested and initially charged with second-degree murder. He later pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of first-degree manslaughter. In court, it was revealed that he had told police his wife was 'starting to lose it' and was suffering, though he also mentioned that they had argued. The former pharmacist was ultimately sentenced to eight years in prison for the killing of his wife.
