Queens, New York City – A 54-year-old landlord is facing charges after allegedly fatally stabbing his girlfriend and two tenants inside a home on Milburn Street in Queens. The suspect, identified as David Daniel, has been charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon.
According to officials, the victims, two women aged 51 and 55, and a 57-year-old man, were discovered in the home at around 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday. Sadly, they were pronounced dead at the scene due to apparent stab wounds.
Investigations into the incident indicate that the motive behind the tenants’ killings stems from a rent dispute that has been ongoing since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. However, authorities have noted that rent payments were made during this period.
Upon further inspection, police found the two tenants in a basement bedroom and the landlord’s girlfriend in an upstairs bedroom. Subsequently, the suspect turned himself in at the 113th precinct.
Assistant Chief Kevin Williams of the New York Police Department (NYPD) stated, “Earlier this morning, a 54-year-old man walked into the 113th precinct, stating to uniformed police officers that he was having issues with his tenants. The officer inquired further, and the male stated further that he did something bad.” The suspect’s statements were recorded on body camera and were described as devoid of emotion.
David Daniel was officially charged with the crimes early Wednesday morning.
Authorities have confirmed that there were only adults present in the residence at the time of the incident, and no children were involved. The single-family home, which includes a finished basement, appeared to be well-maintained, according to officials.
Neighbors have revealed that the landlord and tenants were generally polite but kept to themselves. The identities of the victims have not yet been released to the public.
As of now, police have not disclosed any motives in the murder of the suspect’s girlfriend. Investigations into the case are ongoing as law enforcement officials work to gather more information regarding this tragic incident.
