A Staten Island community has been left in shock after a violent domestic homicide claimed the life of 45-year-old Anthony Casalaspro inside his own home late Monday night.
Police say Casalaspro was stabbed multiple times by his 19-year-old stepson, Damien Hurstel, during a deadly confrontation. Authorities confirmed that the victim was discovered in the bathtub, already deceased by the time first responders arrived.
The gruesome scene was first uncovered by Casalaspro’s stepdaughter, who arrived at the residence and immediately noticed blood in several rooms. When she found her stepfather unresponsive, she called 911. Officers from the NYPD’s 121st Precinct responded within minutes, recovering a kitchen knife believed to be the weapon and placing Hurstel under arrest at the scene.
While investigators have not released a motive, officials have noted that mental illness is being considered as a factor. Detectives from the NYPD Homicide Division are now leading the investigation, reviewing forensic evidence, phone records, and conducting interviews with family and neighbors.
Residents described the family as quiet and private, expressing disbelief at the sudden act of violence. “You never expect something like this to happen right next door,” one neighbor said.
Friends and relatives are remembering Casalaspro as a hardworking, good-natured man who deeply cared for those around him. His sudden death has left loved ones reeling, searching for answers in the wake of unimaginable loss.
Formal charges are expected to be filed against Hurstel in the coming days as prosecutors and investigators continue to unravel the case.