An 18-year-old Latina woman has been identified as the victim in the homicide investigation at a Boston rental property owned by the husband of U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley.
Authorities identified the victim as Yoseliani Ann Marte Ocasio, an 18-year-old of Dominican heritage. The Massachusetts Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled her death a homicide after determining she died from a gunshot wound. As of Friday, no arrests have been announced and the investigation remains active.
Marte Ocasio was found on July 18 inside a two-family home in Boston's Mattapan neighborhood. The property is owned by Conan Harris, Pressley's husband, but neither Harris nor the Massachusetts congresswoman lives there. Pressley's office has said the building is a rental property that was listed for sale at the time of the shooting.
The victim's family has publicly alleged that she was killed in an act of domestic violence. Her mother, Elenie Ocasio, said her daughter "was not suicidal" and believes she knows who is responsible, though police have not identified any suspect or announced charges. Marte Ocasio's grandmother has also described the killing as an act of domestic violence. Investigators have not confirmed that motive.
"Upon arrival, officers made entry into the residence where they located the female victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound," police said in a statement about the case. "The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene."
Friends and relatives held a vigil outside the home, remembering Marte Ocasio as a young woman with dreams for her future. A GoFundMe organized by her family says she was a victim of domestic violence and seeks support for funeral expenses.
"No words can truly express the pain of losing someone so young, with so many dreams, hopes, and milestones still ahead of her," the grieving family wrote. "Yoseliani was deeply loved by her family, friends, and everyone whose life she touched. Her kindness, beautiful spirit, and bright future will never be forgotten."
Pressley expressed condolences after the victim was identified, writing that she was "devastated" by the "heartbreaking tragedy" and describing Marte Ocasio as "an 18-year-old with so many dreams ahead of her, her life cut short by domestic violence." The congresswoman has emphasized that neither she nor her husband were living at the property when the killing occurred.
Boston police continue to investigate the homicide and have asked anyone with information to contact detectives. No arrests or criminal charges have been announced.
