A shocking story unfolded in Kew Gardens Hills, Queens, when police discovered the body of an apartment superintendent, Jose Portillo, hidden in garbage bags under a bed. The discovery was made in the apartment of Sandra Coto Navarro, who is now facing serious charges, including second-degree murder, evidence tampering, and possession of a weapon.
The tragic events began when the landlord of the apartment building on 70th Avenue noticed something strange on the building’s security footage. Portillo, a 55-year-old man known for his helpful nature, was seen entering Navarro’s apartment but never leaving. Alarmed, the landlord called the police, and officers arrived to find Portillo’s body concealed under the bed. Reports say he had been struck on the head and stabbed in the neck and leg.
This horrifying incident reportedly took place after Portillo went to Navarro’s apartment to collect $24,000 in unpaid rent. Navarro’s husband, who was not home during the incident, is not facing any charges.
As police escorted Navarro from the precinct on Thursday, Portillo’s grieving wife confronted her. Speaking in Spanish, she shouted, “You killed my husband!” The emotional moment highlighted the devastation this tragedy has caused.
Neighbors in the quiet Queens neighborhood were stunned. They described Portillo as a kind man who had worked as the building’s superintendent for decades. One neighbor mentioned overhearing something about a rent dispute but didn’t know it involved Navarro.
“He was such a good man,” a neighbor said. “He always helped people with their problems. It’s heartbreaking. He has kids who will now grow up without their father.”
This case is still under investigation as the community mourns the loss of a man who had been a familiar and friendly presence for years. The tragic outcome of what appears to be a dispute over money has left everyone shaken and searching for answers.
