In the early morning hours of February 10, 2024, the life of 40-year-old Saida Xiomara Bonilla Mejia was tragically cut short in her Bronx apartment. A native of Honduras who had immigrated to the United States about a decade prior, she was remembered by her family as a talented hairstylist and a wonderful cook who held pride in her Garifuna heritage.
Her aspirations and vibrant life, however, came to a violent end in what authorities have described as a domestic dispute.
On that fateful Saturday, around 5 a.m., neighbors reported hearing arguments emanating from the apartment on East 203rd Street. Responding to a 911 call about an assault in progress, police discovered a horrific scene. Saida had been shot multiple times in the torso. Also wounded in the gunfire were her two young nephews, a 16-year-old shot in the buttock and a 9-year-old shot in the arm, who were staying with her at the time. All three were rushed to a local hospital, but Saida could not be saved. Her nephews, fortunately, were listed in stable condition and were expected to recover.
The suspect in this brutal act was identified as Rosvin A. Mejia Castillo, 37, who was described as Saida's boyfriend. He was apprehended shortly after the incident and faced a litany of charges, including murder, attempted murder, assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child. Family members painted a grim picture of Saida's relationship with Mejia Castillo, describing it as abusive and controlling. Her brother revealed that Saida had expressed fear of her boyfriend and that his presence had isolated her from her loved ones, who no longer felt welcome in her home. Family members believe Mejia Castillo was lying in wait for her in the hallway of her apartment before the fatal encounter.
Court records from the Bronx District Attorney's Office indicate that Rosvin Mejia Castillo has been charged with second-degree murder and attempted murder in the second degree, among other charges. The case is another stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence, leaving a family to mourn the loss of a cherished mother, sister, and aunt.
