A Tucson apartment became the scene of a fatal domestic incident Monday evening, where police say a 32-year-old man strangled his girlfriend while three young children were inside the home. The victim was found unresponsive on the floor as children cried nearby, according to investigators.
TUCSON, AZ – Officers responded just before 6 p.m. Monday to the 600 block of North Dodge Boulevard after 911 callers reported hearing a “commotion” at a nearby residence. When they arrived, police found 28-year-old Katlynne Roy lying on the floor with what they described as “apparent strangulation trauma.” She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Martine Mayorquin was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and three counts of child abuse in connection with Roy’s death.
Children present during incident
According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by Law&Crime, neighbors first contacted a property manager after hearing screaming and crying coming from the apartment. The manager entered and found Roy on the ground with Mayorquin standing over her, while the children were “huddled in a bathroom crying.”
Prosecutors said during a first appearance hearing that Mayorquin “admitted to strangling the victim twice in front of their 7-year-old, 5-year-old and 3-year-old until she was no longer responsive.”
After being advised of his rights, Mayorquin told investigators he placed Roy in a “rear naked choke hold” for three minutes, paused for two minutes, and then applied the hold again for approximately five minutes, according to the affidavit.
Arrest and court proceedings
Police noted that Mayorquin had scratches on his chest and back, which he reportedly attributed to the victim attempting to fight back during the attack.
At his initial court appearance, a public defender argued for a lower bond, citing the defendant’s lack of prior criminal history. A judge denied that request and set bond at $1 million.
Mayorquin remains in custody at the Pima County Jail. His next court date is scheduled for April 24.
Tucson homicide, domestic violence Arizona, Pima County murder case, child abuse charges Tucson, North Dodge Boulevard incident
