A mother of four from New Jersey, Lucrecia Jadan Sumba, tragically lost her life in a heartbreaking crime allegedly committed by her husband, Rolando Corte. The shocking incident has left her family and community grieving.
Lucrecia, 39, who lived in Elizabeth, was reported missing on January 9 after failing to show up for work—a routine she never missed. Her co-workers became concerned and alerted authorities. Days later, on January 11, her body was discovered in a dumpster on South 3rd Street in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania, about 50 miles north of Philadelphia. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that her death was caused by “sharp force injuries.”
Investigators quickly identified her husband of over 23 years, Rolando Corte, as the suspect. He has since been charged with first-degree murder and is in custody at the Union County Jail. His first court appearance is scheduled for Thursday.
The tragedy has devastated Lucrecia’s family and friends, who described her as a hardworking and loving mother. Originally from Ecuador, she moved to the United States in October 2021, hoping to create a brighter future for her children. She initially worked as a house cleaner and babysitter before taking a job at a nail salon in Elizabeth.
Friends and co-workers shared how Lucrecia was always punctual and positive at work. On the morning of January 8, her day off, she followed her usual routine, dropping her children off at school. But the next day, she didn’t show up for work, and her absence immediately raised alarms. Her boss, Abigail, along with colleagues, tried calling her multiple times and even visited her home to check on her.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up by her friends and co-workers to support her children, who are left reeling from this loss. Three of her four children have been identified as 21, 18, and 5 years old. The campaign highlights the profound impact of this tragedy, describing Lucrecia as a devoted mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her family.
The Union County Prosecutor’s Office worked alongside the Elizabeth Police Department, Coopersburg Police Department, and Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office to investigate the case. Their efforts led to Corte’s arrest on January 12, just one day after Lucrecia’s body was found.
This devastating story has sent shockwaves through the community. Lucrecia’s life, marked by love and sacrifice, was tragically cut short. Her friends and family are now leaning on each other and their community for support during this unimaginable time.
