A man faces murder charges following the discovery of a woman’s body, who was battling Stage 4 breast cancer, inside a suitcase.
Vanessa Sanchez, aged 37, was found deceased in her residence in Berkeley, California, after authorities received a report of a body in a building on May 30.
The property manager alerted the authorities after conducting a wellness check, leading to the discovery of Ms. Sanchez’s body wrapped in a bin bag placed inside a suitcase.
The tragic finding occurred shortly after reports indicated that she was last seen entering the apartment with Damarcus David Jones, who has now been accused of her murder.
Investigators revealed that Jones, 28, was observed entering the apartment with Ms. Sanchez on May 24, which was the last day she was seen alive. Surveillance cameras captured Jones returning to the building with a large roller suitcase.
Jones was apprehended on Tuesday, June 2, in Solano County, California, and charged with murder. According to court records cited by NBC, Jones admitted to killing Ms. Sanchez.
Court documents also revealed that Jones attempted to mask the odor in Ms. Sanchez’s residence by opening windows and using an air purifier.
The untimely death of Ms. Sanchez came as a shock to her family, especially as she was courageously battling advanced breast cancer.
Following her metastatic breast cancer diagnosis in 2023, her mother, Mary Sanchez, established a GoFundMe page to support her medical expenses. The fundraiser, aimed at aiding her fight against cancer, raised $47,415 (£35,530) out of a $60,000 ($44,961) target before her tragic passing.
The tribute on the GoFundMe page described Ms. Sanchez as a brave, kind-hearted soul who touched the lives of many with her warmth and generosity. Her family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received during her battle with cancer.
Vanessa’s enduring spirit and unwavering strength inspired those around her, leaving a profound impact on all who knew her.