by Farmingville, New York – A violent domestic dispute inside a Long Island home ended in tragedy last week when a 46-year-old woman was fatally stabbed and a teenager injured in what police describe as a botched murder-suicide attempt.
Authorities say Marcos Leal, 57, allegedly stabbed his estranged wife, Adriana Barbosa, 46, before attacking a teenage relative and then turning the knife on himself Thursday night. Leal survived and is now facing multiple felony charges.
The incident unfolded shortly after 8:15 p.m. at a home on Granny Road in Farmingville, when a 911 caller reported a domestic situation escalating inside the residence.
Police respond to gruesome scene
Suffolk County police officers arrived to find a chaotic and violent scene. According to investigators, Barbosa, Leal and the teenager all suffered stab wounds during the altercation.
Barbosa was rushed to Stony Brook University Hospital, but doctors were unable to save her. She was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The teenage victim, described by police as a relative of the couple, was transported to the hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Leal, who authorities say attempted to take his own life after the attack, was also hospitalized with serious injuries but survived.
Officers responding to the 911 call encountered what authorities described as a violent domestic dispute that had spiraled out of control.
Neighbor describes shock in quiet community
Neighbors expressed disbelief over the violence in what they described as a typically quiet area.
“Very, very, very shocked. I never have problems with him, very nice people,” neighbor Benvinda Viera told a local ABC affiliate.
Another neighbor, Dr. Richard Dark, described the rapid law enforcement response.
“Blue and red lights, cherries and berries we call them, about a dozen to two dozen cars swooping in here at mega speed,” he said. “Three ambulances. One left early. Probably didn’t need it. One left quietly, unfortunately.”
Suspect charged as investigation continues
Leal has been charged with murder, criminal contempt and endangering the welfare of a child, according to police. Investigators have not yet released details about what led to the confrontation or the circumstances behind the criminal contempt charge.
Authorities said Leal remains hospitalized and is expected to be arraigned at a later date.
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As with all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Friends remember victim
Friends and loved ones of Barbosa have begun sharing tributes online, describing her as kind and deserving of peace.
“Those who met you know that your qualities were countless, and that you deserved the best this world had to offer,” a friend wrote. “My only peace of mind in the midst of all this is knowing that you are finally at peace.”
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to piece together what sparked the deadly encounter.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org for confidential support 24/7.
Community members are encouraged to share memories of the victim respectfully in the comments below.
