A domestic violence case in Portland, Oregon, turned tragic when a 24-year-old mother, Neilyann Ysam, was fatally stabbed on July 19. Authorities say the first call to police came from her 4-year-old daughter, who told responders: “My dad killed my mom.”
What Happened on July 19?
Police were dispatched to a Portland home after receiving a report of a stabbing. When officers arrived, they found Ysam dead inside the residence.
The suspect, 28-year-old S Mate Joseph, was arrested later that same day in Vancouver, Washington, according to a statement from the Portland Police Bureau.
Court documents revealed that Joseph also called 911 himself, admitting he had stabbed a “loved one” but claiming he did not know if she had survived.
Child’s Statement Helped Identify Suspect
According to the arrest affidavit obtained by KATU, Ysam’s 4-year-old daughter identified her father as the attacker and gave police his name. The chilling detail highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence on children, who often witness the abuse firsthand.
History of Domestic Violence Allegations
This was not the first time Joseph faced accusations of violence against Ysam:
2019: Joseph pleaded guilty to assaulting Ysam while she was pregnant, according to Clark County court records.
2020: He was found with Ysam in a car, violating a protective order issued against him the previous year.
Ysam’s aunt told investigators that Ysam and her children had been staying with her after fleeing alleged abuse in the home she once shared with Joseph.
Criminal Charges Filed
Following his arrest, Joseph was charged with second-degree murder and first-degree burglary. Court records show he has pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Impact on the Family
Four of Ysam’s children were living with her at the time, reports KATU. Family members and advocates say the case underscores the urgent need for stronger protection measures for victims attempting to escape abusive relationships.
The killing of Neilyann Ysam serves as a painful reminder of the dangers faced by survivors of domestic violence, especially when abusers violate court orders and repeat cycles of abuse. This tragedy also highlights the resilience and bravery of Ysam’s child, whose quick call for help identified the suspect.
If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.
