A 19-year-old man, Damien Hurstel, was arrested and charged with murder after fatally stabbing and decapitating his mother’s boyfriend inside their Staten Island home on Monday, October 6, 2025. The brutal crime occurred in the bathroom of the home on Cary Avenue in the West Brighton neighborhood.
What Happened
Around 4:20 p.m. on Monday, police responded to a horrific scene at a residence on Cary Avenue. Damien Hurstel allegedly attacked his mother’s 45-year-old boyfriend with a knife, stabbing him repeatedly in the head and neck before severing his head. The victim’s head was found in the bathtub, with a knife still protruding from his neck.
Hurstel’s 16-year-old sister arrived home from school to find her brother covered in blood and the home stained with blood trails. When she discovered the body of the victim, she immediately called their mother, who rushed home and called 911. Witnesses reported hearing the mother scream, “He’s dead! He’s dead!” upon seeing the scene.
After the attack, Hurstel calmly surrendered to police, walking with officers to a nearby ambulance. Police sources reported that Hurstel appeared emotionally disturbed and had been on medication for emotional issues. He was taken to a hospital before being arraigned in court.
Background of the Incident
Damien Hurstel’s relationship with his mother’s boyfriend had been troubled for some time. Police records show that Hurstel’s mother had contacted authorities multiple times regarding incidents involving her boyfriend. In 2021, she reported that her boyfriend was drinking and had a gun in the house, though no weapon was found. In August 2023, another altercation occurred when the boyfriend allegedly slapped Hurstel and attempted to attack the mother. Although police were called, it is unclear if any arrests were made.
Neighbors have expressed shock over the violence, noting that they were unaware of any prior incidents in the home. One neighbor described the event as “devilish,” calling it “evil,” and expressing disbelief that such a violent act could occur in their quiet neighborhood.
Police Investigation and Details
After the attack, Hurstel’s mother allegedly told police that her son had special needs and pleaded with officers not to hurt him. Witnesses reported that Hurstel appeared to be “relieved” after the crime, though he did not show emotion during his arrest. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation into the motive behind the attack is ongoing.
Public Reactions
The murder has left the local community shaken, with many expressing their disbelief over the extreme violence. A longtime neighbor of the family described the crime as “too much” and questioned how emotions could escalate to such a violent act. The case has raised concerns about domestic violence, mental health, and the impact of troubled family dynamics.
Closing Line:
Damien Hurstel remains in custody, facing charges of second-degree murder and other related crimes. As the investigation continues, authorities are looking into the family’s history of reported incidents to gain a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
