A Bronx man, Franklin Batallas, has been formally charged with murdering his girlfriend, Anthonella Contreras Linarez. Batallas initially claimed the attack was carried out by two people on a moped who tried to rob Linarez, stabbing her when she resisted.
According to law enforcement, Linarez, 30, died from multiple stab wounds after the incident on City Island. Batallas himself suffered a stab wound to his forearm and was treated at the hospital. Police say evidence later pointed to Batallas himself as the attacker.
The two had been in a relationship for about three years. Neighbors and family members say there were no prior signs of abuse or violence. Linarez worked as a registered nurse. Her death has left her community distressed, and authorities are investigating further.