Woman Gets Shot & Killed In Penthouse While Trying to End Relationship with Her Boyfriend

A New York man has been charged with murder, after authorities say he shot his girlfriend, who was trying to end their turbulent relationship.

Mark Small, 55, is accused of shooting 39-year-old Marivel Estevez in the Minneola luxury apartment they shared.

Small has been charged with second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

According to Nassau County District Attorney, “The shooting took place in July. The couple was involved in a volatile relationship and Estevez was planning to end it. Between the evening hours of July 28 and the early morning hours of July 29, the defendant and Estevez were present together in her Penthouse apartment where they both lived. During that time, the defendant shot the victim with a handgun, once in the head and once in the torso, and then fled in Estevez’s car.”

“When Estevez failed to show up for work on July 30 an employee called police for a wellness check,” the release continues. “Responding Nassau County Police Department officers found Estevez deceased laying on her bed.”

Small was struck by a car on the Long Island Expressway while chasing Estevez’s dog, which escaped after he took it from the apartment. This took place while police discovered Estevez’s body in her home. He was apprehended by police shortly after.

It’s unclear how long Estevez and Small had dated. She managed the building in which they lived; he had owned a restaurant until it recently closed.

Small has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is being held without bond. His next court appearance is October 21.

A GoFundMe page organized to help with the expense of Estevez’s funeral raised nearly $20,000 dollars.

“Marivel, a loving daughter, sister, aunt and friend,” the page organizer wrote. “Anyone who knew Marivel loved her. She was a breath of fresh air with a smile that would light up any room.”