Residents of Hellevoetsluis are grappling with shock and horror following the brutal murder of a 61-year-old woman, Alia, in her home on Molenstraat on April 16, 2025. The incident has left the community reeling, particularly as details emerge about the circumstances surrounding her death and the involvement of her son, Jesse R.
At approximately 2:45 p.m. on Wednesday, police responded to a call at Alia's residence, where they discovered her lifeless body. Sources indicate that she had been beheaded, a gruesome detail that has horrified neighbors and friends alike. Jesse R., a 31-year-old man from Diemen, was arrested shortly thereafter on the A4 highway, where police found him with his mother’s head in his vehicle, reportedly in a bag.
Mayor Arno Scheepers expressed his disbelief, stating, "We are shocked and in disbelief about the horrific event." The mayor's sentiments echo the feelings of many in the quiet neighborhood, who described Alia as a “very sweet woman.” Neighbors noted that she had two adult sons, with Jesse being the one who had reportedly struggled with mental health issues.
Jesse R. had previously shared on LinkedIn about his experiences with manic depression, expressing a desire to find a supportive work environment that understood his limitations. "Now I am looking for an organization that dares to understand the limitations of my manic depression," he wrote a year ago. Reports suggest that he had been living on the student campus, Our Campus, on the outskirts of Amsterdam until recently.
Neighbors described Jesse as somewhat of a recluse, with many not recognizing him when presented with his name and photo. They noted that he had a history of mental health challenges, including psychosis, which had reportedly led him to believe at one point that his girlfriend was unfaithful. This mental health history has raised questions about the events leading up to the tragic incident.
Further investigations revealed that Jesse R. had a substantial history with various aid agencies, often described as having a "serious care file." His mental health struggles included episodes of psychosis, and he had been known to take medication to manage his delusions. Despite these challenges, Jesse was also described as a gifted individual, managing social media for an organization that supports highly gifted individuals.
As the investigation continues, the police have not disclosed a motive for the murder. However, the shocking nature of the crime has sparked discussions about mental health awareness and the support systems available for individuals like Jesse R.
As details continue to unfold, the local community remains in mourning. One neighbor reflected on Alia’s character, saying, "She had good contact with one of her sons. The other, from Diemen, came by every now and then. Apparently, he suffered from psychoses." This sentiment underscores the tragedy not only of Alia’s death but also of the struggles faced by her son.
Jesse R. is set to appear before a judge-commissioner in Rotterdam on Friday, April 18, 2025, where a decision regarding his preliminary detention will be made. The police have urged anyone with information about the case to come forward as they continue their investigation.
The incident has raised critical questions about mental health care and the responsibilities of family members in supporting those with severe mental health issues. As the community seeks answers, the tragic loss of Alia serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding mental illness and violence.
