Tragic Conclusion to a Case of Domestic Violence

In a somber courtroom scene on April 3, 2025, Justin Soriano, 43, received a sentence of 40 years to life for the horrific murder of his ex-girlfriend, Shanice Young, 31, and her unborn child. The crime occurred in september 2021, after Young’s baby shower in Harlem, casting a long shadow over the community. the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office confirmed the sentencing in a press release calling it a just outcome for a crime that shook the city.

Details of the Murder

The District Attorney’s office detailed the events of that fateful night. Between 1:00 a.m. and 1:16 a.m.on Sept. 21, 2021, Shanice Young was returning home, surrounded by loved ones after celebrating her baby shower. Accompanying her were her two daughters, ages 15 and 6, a 31-year-old male friend with his two daughters, ages 7 and 1, and her male cousin.

As they unloaded gifts, Justin Soriano arrived on a motorcycle, disguised in all black clothing, a face covering, and latex gloves, and armed with a loaded firearm.He initially pursued Young’s new companion around the apartment building, creating a chaotic and terrifying scene.

The situation escalated when Soriano returned to the front of the building, where Young’s children were in the car. Desperate, Young attempted to reason with Soriano.

The DA’s office said Young asked Soriano why he was doing this, and instead of responding, he repeated her question and began firing into her face at close range.

First responders arrived to find Young with no apparent signs of life.She and her unborn child were pronounced dead at a local hospital. Soriano fled the scene but was apprehended in the Bronx on Sept. 16, 2021.

He was found guilty on all counts, including murder in the second degree and criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, among other charges.

Community Impact and Legal Perspectives

The murder sent shockwaves through Harlem and beyond, highlighting the tragic consequences of domestic violence.Manhattan District Attorney Bragg expressed his sentiments regarding the case:

“Justin Soriano will serve state prison time for viciously murdering Shanice Young on what should have been a joyous and memorable occasion and festivity.Soriano committed this horrific shooting in front of four children,including Ms. Young’s own daughters, who helplessly watched their mother die right before their eyes. The trauma Ms. Young’s family and loved ones have experienced continues to be felt today and my thoughts remain with them as they continue to heal. I hope the notable sentence imposed today serves as a measure of justice for this tragic and abhorrent act of violence.”

The case underscores the devastating impact of domestic violence on families and communities. Studies by the National Coalition Against Domestic violence show that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner contact sexual violence, and/or intimate partner stalking with impacts such as injury, fearfulness, post-traumatic stress disorder, use of victim services, contraction of sexually transmitted diseases, etc.

The Broader Context: Domestic violence in the U.S.

The tragic case of Shanice Young highlights a persistent issue in the United States: domestic violence.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), domestic violence affects millions of Americans each year. The consequences extend beyond physical harm, impacting mental health, economic stability, and the well-being of children.

In 2023, a study by the National Institute of Justice found that women between the ages of 18 and 24 are most commonly abused by an intimate partner. This statistic underscores the importance of early intervention and educational programs targeted at young adults.

Prevention and Resources

Addressing domestic violence requires a multi-faceted approach, including prevention programs, support services for victims, and holding perpetrators accountable.

• Education: Implementing educational programs in schools and communities to promote healthy relationships and address the root causes of violence.
• Support Services: Increasing funding for shelters, counseling services, and legal aid for victims of domestic violence.
• Legal Reform: strengthening laws to protect victims of domestic violence and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
• community Involvement: Encouraging community members to speak out against domestic violence and support victims in their communities.