San Jose, CA – A 27-year-old man in California has been arrested after allegedly killing three people to prevent one of them from testifying about a prior strangulation and assault, authorities said.
The Triple Homicide Incident
Police identified the suspect as Joseph Vicencio, accused of murdering 26-year-old Tarrah Lynn Taylor, her 24-year-old roommate Jeannessa Lurie, and 26-year-old Max Ryan in San Jose.
Authorities received multiple calls shortly before 12:30 a.m. Tuesday reporting gunshots and a woman screaming in the 200 block of Chynoweth Avenue.
Officers found a woman outside the home with at least one gunshot wound, who was transported to a hospital and pronounced dead. Inside the home, officers discovered a second female and a male victim, both of whom were declared dead — the male after paramedics transported him to a hospital.
Vicencio was arrested the following day, Wednesday, in connection with the murders.
Prior Domestic Assault
According to the arrest affidavit, Taylor had contacted San Jose police on Monday, reporting that Vicencio had punched her in the chest and strangled her the previous day. Police noted marks on Taylor’s neck consistent with her allegations. Lurie also reportedly told officers she witnessed the acts of domestic violence.
Despite the reports, Vicencio was not arrested immediately. Hours later, he allegedly returned to the home and committed the triple murder.
Evidence and Investigation
Surveillance video reportedly captured Vicencio fleeing the scene carrying a unique satchel, which he later discarded in a sewer. Investigators recovered the bag containing the alleged murder weapon.
A witness told police that Vicencio had said he “couldn’t have loose ends and people talking about him”, referencing Taylor’s earlier assault report. Despite warnings from the witness not to harm anyone, Vicencio allegedly carried out the killings.
Post-incident, investigators said Vicencio used the witness’s computer to search for information about murders in San Jose. Another witness reported that when confronted, Vicencio claimed he “had an issue with a male at the apartment but handled it.”
Criminal History
Vicencio reportedly has a lengthy criminal record. In 2019, he was accused of shooting at the Martin Luther King Jr. library and parking garage at San Jose State University. His father told local media that his son had a “fascination with guns” and mental health problems.
The exact nature of Vicencio’s relationship with Taylor was not detailed, though the initial incident was categorized as domestic violence.
Court Proceedings
Vicencio is slated to appear in court on October 24 and remains in jail awaiting trial. Authorities continue to investigate the case to determine all circumstances surrounding the murders.
Conclusion
The San Jose community is grappling with the shocking triple homicide, underscoring the dangers of unaddressed domestic violence and the importance of early intervention by authorities. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any threats to local law enforcement immediately.
What are your thoughts on the handling of domestic violence reports? Share your insights in the comments below.
