A tragic shooting in Queens, New York, has led to charges against a 62-year-old man accused of killing his estranged wife while she attempted to shield her daughter from the gunfire. Authorities announced on Friday that Audwin Caines was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, attempted murder, and several weapons-related offenses following the incident on June 23.
Details of the Crime
According to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Caines allegedly shot and killed his estranged wife, Chaneil Ramsay, 45, while she was walking down the street with her 21-year-old daughter. Prior to the shooting, investigators say that Caines had sent Ramsay a photo of her car window shattered by a brick, a move that seems to have escalated the tension between the estranged couple.
Later in the afternoon, Caines allegedly confronted Ramsay and her daughter as they walked, opening fire as they attempted to flee. The pair took cover behind a parked car, but Ramsay reportedly stood up and rushed toward Caines, trying to protect her daughter from the gunfire. The DA’s office alleges that Caines then shot Ramsay at close range, hitting her in the head and body.
Previous History of Abuse
The shooting was not an isolated event. Authorities also revealed that in a separate incident on July 1, 2024, Caines had attacked Ramsay, striking her in the head with a bottle before breaking it and stabbing her in the chest after an argument. This history of violence added further weight to the charges against him.
Charges and Potential Sentencing
Caines has been charged with second-degree murder, second-degree attempted murder, two counts of illegally possessing a weapon, and fourth-degree criminal mischief. If convicted, he could face a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
The case has shocked the community, highlighting the dangers of domestic violence. Chaneil Ramsay’s brave act of attempting to protect her daughter ultimately cost her life, and now, her estranged husband faces serious charges in connection with her death. This tragedy underscores the importance of addressing and preventing domestic violence, and resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline remain available for anyone in need of help.
