Empire State Review Team 
Vigil Held for Bronx Woman Found Dead in Yonkers
NEW YORK – A somber vigil took place in the Fordham Heights neighborhood of the Bronx for 26-year-old Pamela Alcantara. Her lifeless body was discovered inside a duffel bag near the Saw Mill River Parkway in Yonkers, prompting a wave of mourning among family, friends, and community members.
Timeline of Events
- March 2, 2025: Pamela Alcantara was last seen at her residence on Morris Avenue in the Bronx around 2 a.m.
- March 5, 2025: The NYPD issued a missing persons alert, appealing to the public for information regarding her whereabouts.
- March 6, 2025: Officers investigating her disappearance found her body around 9:51 a.m. in a duffel bag near the Saw Mill River Parkway. EMS pronounced her dead at the scene.
- March 7, 2025: Junior Perez Diaz, a 46-year-old man from the Bronx, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including second-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping.
Details of the Investigation
Alcantara’s family reported her missing after she had not been seen for several days. Following the discovery of her body, investigators are working diligently to piece together the circumstances surrounding her death. As of now, authorities have not disclosed the specific cause of death, pending an autopsy from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Charges Against Junior Perez Diaz
The accused, Junior Perez Diaz, faces serious charges, including:
- Second-degree murder
- First-degree manslaughter
- First-degree kidnapping
The legal proceedings are ongoing as authorities seek justice for Alcantara and clarity on the events leading to her tragic death.
Community Response
The vigil organized for Pamela Alcantara underscores the impact of her death on the community. Family and friends gathered outside her apartment, remembering her vibrant spirit and the life that was cut short. As the investigation continues, local authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward by contacting the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Authorities remain focused on uncovering the full details surrounding Alcantara’s passing. The process will include analyzing evidence and conducting further interviews in a bid to understand the circumstances of her tragic death. Updates will be provided as new information emerges.
