A heated dispute over water leaks turned deadly at the Mais Parque Ipê condominium on Avenida Arthur Bernardes, Campos dos Goytacazes, during the night of February 25, 2024. The confrontation resulted in the tragic homicide of 34-year-old Vinicius da Silva Azevedo, who was the condominium's subsíndico. He was shot by 35-year-old José Renato Costa de Queiroz, another resident of the complex.
According to reports, the altercation was ignited by delays in addressing infiltration issues at Costa de Queiroz's apartment. Following this disagreement, the situation escalated alarmingly. Surveillance footage obtained from the premises reveals the argument between the two men, culminating with Costa de Queiroz chasing Azevedo outside their building.
Witnesses described the harrowing scene where Costa de Queiroz discharged his weapon at Azevedo multiple times. Initial reports indicate he fired at least six shots, hitting Azevedo as he sought refuge behind cars. Once Azevedo fell to the ground, Costa de Queiroz is reported to have continued the assault, kicking and hitting him with the gun.
A bystander intervened, pushing the assailant away and calling for assistance. Azevedo was immediately transported to Hospital Ferreira Machado but tragically succumbed to his injuries. The community expressed shock over the incident, which was escalated by what many described as irrational aggression over trivial matters.
Carla Tavares, the chief of the 134th Police Station, stated, "It's brutal aggression. He fired six shots at his neighbor, leading to death over a complaint. Not satisfied, he then used the gun to deliver numerous blows to the victim’s head." Her comments underscored the grievous nature of the crime and the senselessness of its motivation.
Local accounts suggest Costa de Queiroz was known for his aggressive behavior and had previously encountered issues with residents. After the incident, he was restrained by fellow residents, who effectively prevented him from fleeing until law enforcement arrived.
The assailant was taken under police custody at the same hospital where Azevedo was treated, having sustained injuries during his attempts to escape. The police are pursuing charges of qualified homicide, categorizing the act as one driven by trivial and perverse motives.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, and neighbors are left grappling with the reality of violence invading their home. The community has been somewhat shaken, reflecting on how minor disputes can escalate to such tragic outcomes. For many, this incident serves as both a sobering reminder of the fragility of human life and the dire consequences of letting anger overpower reasoning.
The murder of Vinicius da Silva Azevedo at the Mais Parque Ipê condominium sends ripples of fear and caution across Campos dos Goytacazes, highlighting the far-reaching effects of domestic conflicts. Onlookers hope for justice and healing within their community, striving to prevent such tragedies from repeating.