Woman who died in Ayanna Pressley's husband's Mattapan home was victim of homicide

The death of an 18-year-old woman found inside a Boston residence owned by Rep. Ayanna Pressley’s husband has been ruled a homicide, according to authorities.

Boston police said Thursday that Yoseliani Ann Marte Ocasio was found dead at the property on July 18 after officers responded to a report of a person being shot. She was pronounced dead at the scene, reports People. The Boston Police Department said the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined Marte Ocasio’s death was a homicide. Investigators are continuing to look into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

“Upon arrival, officers made entry into the residence where they located the female victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound,” police said. “The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.” The residence, located in Boston’s Mattapan neighborhood, is owned by Conan Harris, Pressley’s husband. Local reports indicate the couple does not live at the property, which has been used as a rental home.

The eight-bedroom house, valued at roughly $919,000, was reportedly listed for sale around the time of Marte Ocasio’s death, though real estate listings now show it is no longer on the market.

Pressley released a statement through her office expressing grief over the killing.

“I am devastated about the death of Yoseliani Marte, an 18-year-old with so many dreams ahead of her, her life cut short by domestic violence. As the parent of a teenager, the thought of a young person violently losing their life in this way is beyond crushing. I stand with our community and everyone who loved Yoseliani as we grieve this deep loss. May we all honor her life and humanity and extend compassion to her loved ones as they navigate this heartbreaking tragedy.”

A GoFundMe campaign created to help cover funeral expenses and signed by Marte Ocasio’s mother, Elenie, alleged the teenager died “as a result of domestic violence.” The family did not provide additional details.

“No words can truly express the pain of losing someone so young, with so many dreams, hopes, and milestones still ahead of her,” the family wrote. “Yoseliani was deeply loved by her family, friends, and everyone whose life she touched. Her kindness, beautiful spirit, and bright future will never be forgotten.”

Police are asking anyone with information about the case to contact investigators.