A Connecticut man has been charged with murdering his Alzheimer’s-affected sister after reportedly becoming overwhelmed by caregiving duties.
Victim and Incident
Sean McCormack, 56, is accused of killing 69-year-old Donna Caponera at their home on Edgemere Road in East Haven on May 16. McCormack was Caponera’s in-home caregiver and held her power of attorney due to her Alzheimer’s.
Discovery
Police responded after a call in which the caller, apparently McCormack, did not speak. Officers found Caponera unresponsive on the living room floor with a phone charging cord around her neck. McCormack, reportedly intoxicated, was sitting nearby bleeding from his arm, with an open bottle of vodka, discarded cigarettes, and a kitchen knife.
Statements and Background
McCormack allegedly admitted to police, “I just killed… now she’s f—ing laying here dead,” and expressed disbelief at his actions. Investigators said he was a recovering alcoholic and struggling with caregiving burnout.
Caponera’s Alzheimer’s had led to increased aggression, including hitting her brother. Notes in the home reportedly referenced the effects of Alzheimer’s on Caponera.
Legal Status
McCormack is held on $2 million bond and is scheduled to return to court on June 3.
Victim’s Legacy
Caponera is remembered in her obituary as the “beloved owner and heart” of a local day care. She is praised for her kindness, patience, and devotion to children, leaving a lasting impact on her community.
