Portland, Oregon – Neilyann Ysam, 24, was allegedly stabbed to death by the man she fled to escape domestic abuse, according to newly released court documents obtained by KATU, Portland’s local ABC affiliate. The tragedy occurred on July 19, 2025, while Ysam was staying in a Portland home with her five young children. Fortunately, all the children were unharmed and safely removed from the scene by authorities.
The 911 Call That Exposed the Crime
The horrifying incident came to light when Ysam’s 4-year-old daughter called 911, telling dispatchers, “My dad killed my mom.” According to court documents, Ysam’s alleged killer, 28-year-old S. Mate Joseph, also called 911, claiming he had stabbed a “loved one” but expressed uncertainty about whether she was still alive. Following the attack, Joseph reportedly fled the home, leaving Ysam bleeding to death.
History of Domestic Violence
Ysam and Joseph had a documented history of domestic violence going back to 2019. At the time, Joseph pleaded guilty to assaulting Ysam while she was pregnant, according to reports from Vancouver, Washington. In that incident, Ysam was described as “barefoot, screaming, crying and attempting to get away” from Joseph.
The earlier case also involved Joseph’s 16-year-old brother, who threatened two men with a knife when police were called. The teenager was shot and killed by an officer during the confrontation, while Joseph was subdued with a stun gun and arrested. He eventually received 11 days in jail after pleading guilty to assault in the fourth degree, harassment, and jumping bail.
Flight and Tragic Return
Court documents indicate that Ysam had fled to Portland, Oregon, to escape Joseph. She was living with an aunt at the time of the final, fatal incident. The tragic attack occurred in a home where her five children, all under six years old, were present, leaving them traumatized by the loss of their mother.
Arrest and Charges
Joseph was arrested on July 22, 2025, initially booked into Clark County Jail in Washington before being extradited to Multnomah County, Oregon. He entered a plea of not guilty to second-degree murder and burglary during a court appearance.
The case highlights the dangers victims of domestic abuse can face even after attempting to flee their abuser, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ysam’s death.
