The Cuban community in Florida is deeply shocked by the tragic murder of Yannelis de la Caridad Casales Antón, a 30-year-old woman who was brutally killed on March 30 in Jacksonville by her partner, Carlos Yordanis Aldana, aged 38, who had recently arrived in the United States. Friends and family of the victim have voiced their outrage on social media, calling for the charges against Aldana to be elevated to first-degree murder.
One of the vocal advocates for justice is Melani Melissa Omo Oshun, who urged on Facebook: "Share this and like it as much as you can and write 'Justice for Yannelis.' This cannot remain a second-degree charge; it must be first-degree." She questioned, "No one has the right to kill anyone here. Thirteen stabs—how can it be second-degree if it was premeditated? Besides, in the video I saw, he said it himself: 'I killed her, I killed her, I killed her.' He knew exactly what he was doing."
Omo Oshun highlighted the severity of the crime, remembering Yannelis as a woman who fought for her family and did not deserve such a fate. "He killed a girl loved by everyone, an adorable woman fighting to see her family again. He murdered a young woman full of purpose who loved him. If she hadn't loved him, she wouldn't have gone back to that trash," she added.
According to reports from the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, Yannelis's body was discovered in the bedroom of an apartment in the Arlington complex. She had been stabbed 13 times, suggesting possible premeditation in the attack. Aldana, found on the scene, had injuries to his left hand and shin. He was taken to a local hospital for treatment before being detained and held in Duval County Jail, charged with murder.
Yannelis had been residing in the United States for three years. On March 17, she shared on social media the emotional reunion with Aldana at the airport upon his arrival in the country. However, just two weeks later, the tragic event occurred. Reports indicate that Aldana had previously been sanctioned in Cuba for three years before emigrating.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to cover funeral expenses in the United States and the repatriation of Yannelis's body to Cuba. So far, more than $13,300 of the $16,000 needed has been raised. The family is hoping to avoid cremation, wishing to give her a final farewell in her homeland.
This tragic incident underscores the pressing issue of domestic violence and prompts reflection on the devastating effects of jealousy and distrust within relationships.
Understanding the Tragic Case of Yannelis Casales Antón
Why is the community demanding a first-degree murder charge?
The community believes the murder was premeditated, as evidenced by the 13 stab wounds and Aldana’s own admission captured on video. They argue this elevates the crime to first-degree murder.
What actions have been taken to support Yannelis's family?
A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to help cover the funeral expenses and the costs of repatriating Yannelis's body to Cuba, with the aim of giving her a proper farewell in her homeland.
What does this case highlight about domestic violence?
This case highlights the severe consequences of domestic violence and the tragic outcomes that can result from jealousy and distrust in relationships, urging society to reflect on these critical issues.