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The body of Yonkers resident Denise Smith, of Oak Street, was found at approximately noon in a residence on Beaumont Circle in Yonkers on Monday, Jan. 13, police said. Upon arrival, officers made entry into an apartment and found her unresponsive with stab wounds on the floor.
According to police, a suspect - later identified as 63-year-old Yonkers resident James Hilliard - was detained outside. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics from Empress Emergency Medical Services.
Police said that the investigation determined that Smith was allegedly stabbed multiple times in her torso and neck, leading to her death. It appears that Hilliard, who lives on Beaumont Circle, was familiar with Smith. The two allegedly engaged in a dispute that escalated into physical violence.
The nature of the dispute was not immediately clear, police said. Detectives are working to determine the extent of the pair's relationship and any history between the two. No other suspects are being sought. Investigators noted that several knives were recovered as evidence as the investigation continues.
On Tuesday, Jan. 21, police announced that Hilliard is being charged with second-degree murder, a violent felony and he was scheduled to be arraigned on the charge in Yonkers Criminal Court.
The identity of Hilliard's alleged victim has not been released. Check Daily Voice for updates.
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