Fely Ramirez, a 67-year-old resident of Carson, California, was tragically killed on October 5, 2018. Her death was the result of a violent incident involving her husband, Benjamin Christino Ramirez. The couple had been married for over four decades, but their relationship had become strained, leading Fely to file for divorce. On the day of her death, Fely served Benjamin with divorce papers at their home.
This act triggered a fatal response from Benjamin, who shot Fely multiple times, including once in the head and twice in the upper body. After committing the crime, Benjamin fled the scene in Fely's car, attempting to make it appear as though she was not home.
The discovery of Fely's body was made by her relatives later that day. They found her lifeless in their home on East Joel Street, covered with a blanket. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department responded to the scene and initiated an investigation. Benjamin Ramirez was initially arrested the day after the murder but was released two days later due to insufficient evidence. However, he was re-arrested ten days later after additional evidence was gathered, including surveillance footage showing him entering and leaving the residence on the day of the murder.
Benjamin Ramirez was charged with first-degree murder and stood trial for his actions. During the trial, it was revealed that Fely had endured a controlling and abusive relationship with Benjamin. Their two adult children, Philip and Kimberly, provided victim impact statements, describing their mother as a loving and selfless woman who had hoped to start a new chapter in her life after the divorce. They also spoke about their father's controlling behavior and how he had taken their mother's love for granted.
On September 11, 2019, Benjamin Ramirez was found guilty of first-degree murder. He was sentenced to 35 years to life in prison on October 1, 2019. The judge highlighted the premeditated nature of the crime, noting that each shot was fired at close range and was fatal. The case brought to light the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the devastating impact it had on the Ramirez family.
