The East Harlem community is mourning the loss of a beloved local businesswoman, Vianel Garcia, whose life was tragically cut short in a shocking incident involving her son. The 44-year-old owner of Vianel Beauty Salon was fatally injured on Sunday afternoon in Riverside Park, Washington Heights. According to the NYPD, Garcia’s son, 22-year-old Miguel Duval, pushed her down a grassy embankment, leading to her death.
Witnesses at the scene described a desperate and frantic effort to save Garcia’s life. Natalia Weaver, a passerby, recounted, “A bunch of police were huddled in that corner. Someone was trying to do CPR for what felt like 20 minutes.” Despite these efforts, Garcia succumbed to her injuries.
Miguel Duval was taken into custody just hours after the incident and is now facing a charge of murder in the second degree. The motive behind this tragic act remains unclear, and the community is left in shock and disbelief.
The usually vibrant Vianel Beauty Salon on East 112th Street was uncharacteristically quiet on Monday. The doors remained closed as customers and community members gathered outside, leaving flowers and notes in remembrance of Garcia. The salon, typically a hub of activity and a source of joy for many, now stands as a sad reminder of the devastating loss.
Longtime customers expressed their grief and disbelief. Naomi Roman, a regular at the salon, was overcome with emotion. “I’m going to cry. She was the best. The whole neighborhood loved her,” she said. Another customer, Daphne Lugo, added, “She’s amazing. I don’t get it. She’s a really good person.”
Garcia was more than just a salon owner; she was a pillar of the community. As a mother of four, she was known for her dedication to her family and her business. “She sacrificed herself a lot for her kids,” shared Norma Mendez, a frequent visitor to the salon. “She always meant well. She helped everybody here,” echoed Lugo.
Garcia’s welcoming spirit and generosity left a lasting impression on those who knew her. Naomi Roman recalled the warmth of her salon, “She was welcoming, music, she offered coffee.” These small gestures made the salon a special place for many in the community.
The news of Garcia’s death has left a void in the lives of her customers and friends. Lugo, who had just seen Garcia days before the incident, was particularly affected. “This is a very big loss for all of us,” she said, reflecting on the impact Garcia had on her life and the lives of many others in the community.
Read More:
- Tragic Motor Home Fire: Woman Found Dead Under Suspicious Circumstances in Rigby!
- New Scam Alert: How Fake Facebook Profiles are tricking Idahoans?
- Breaking News: 2 Injured in Late-Night Shooting at Miami-Dade Banquet Hall!
As the community grapples with this tragic event, they remember Vianel Garcia not only for her professional skills but also for her kind-hearted nature and the joy she brought into their lives. The loss of such a vibrant and caring individual is a heavy blow, and her memory will undoubtedly continue to resonate throughout East Harlem.
