Madelin Maria Cartaya Hernandez, a 42-year-old Cuban woman, was tragically found dead on May 19, 2016, in her Jacksonville, FL apartment. The incident was reported as an apparent murder-suicide. According to police reports, neighbors heard a loud argument followed by gunshots at the Silver Creek Apartments, located off Atlantic Boulevard near Southside Boulevard.
When the authorities arrived, they discovered two bodies along with a weapon, indicating no further search for suspects was necessary. The shooter was identified as an ex-boyfriend of Madelin Maria Cartaya Hernandez, although his name was not disclosed by the family.
Madelin Maria Cartaya Hernandez had moved to Jacksonville from Cuba with her daughters, Yisandra Ross and Yissel Cartaya, 12 years prior to her death. She was known for her dedication to her family and her love for cooking traditional Cuban food. On the morning of the incident, her daughters had visited her separately the previous night, making it the last time they saw her alive. The ex-boyfriend reportedly entered the apartment while Madelin was alone, as her young son was at school at the time. The family described the event as a complete surprise, emphasizing the shock and grief it brought to them.
The investigation revealed that the ex-boyfriend shot Madelin Maria Cartaya Hernandez before taking his own life. The police did not release further details about the ex-boyfriend or any prior incidents that might have led to this tragic event. The family has been deeply affected, with her daughters expressing the significant void left in their lives. They have been trying to delay funeral arrangements to ensure that family members from Cuba could attend.
This incident highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of support systems for victims. The community and family continue to mourn the loss of Madelin Maria Cartaya Hernandez, remembering her as a loving mother and a cherished member of their lives.
