Florida authorities confirmed the death of Robert Heyden, 65, who suffered severe chemical burns after his wife attacked him with sulfuric acid while he was sleeping. The events occurred on Thursday, August 21 in the city of New Port Richey, in Pasco County, in the west of the state.
According to the Tampa Bay Times, police received an emergency call from the attacker, identified as Chuaying He, 50, who admitted responsibility. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found Heyden in critical condition, covered in corrosive substances and with severe injuries to much of his body.
Emergency transfer and death in hospital
The man was immediately transported by helicopter to Tampa General Hospital, where he remained in critical condition for several days.
Despite medical efforts, he died on Monday, August 25, from burns.
His death allowed the prosecutor’s office to raise the charges against his wife.
He initially faced charges of attempted murder, but with the confirmation of Heyden’s death, the county prosecutor’s office filed charges of first-degree murder and aggravated assault with serious bodily injury.
A premeditated attack
The investigation revealed that the attack was planned in advance.
Chuaying He confessed to officers that she used sulfuric acid with the intention of killing her husband.
In addition, he blocked the bedroom door by placing a wooden bar and wire to prevent Heyden from escaping or anyone entering to help him.
The marriage had been contracted in August 2024, but the relationship was in crisis.
Both were in divorce proceedings, and Heyden had requested exclusive possession of the home.
In fact, a day after the attack, the couple was scheduled for a court hearing on that issue.
Domestic violence in Florida: a growing problem
The case reflects one of the most extreme forms of domestic violence, a phenomenon that continues to affect thousands of families in Florida and throughout the United States.
According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), in its latest Uniform Crime Report, overall crime in the state decreased by 14.1%.
However, domestic violence-related crimes increased by 1.16%, with more than 106,000 incidents officially reported.
Specialists warn that isolation, economic conflicts and lack of access to legal or psychological support are factors that aggravate tensions in marriages.
Often resulting in violent acts that put the whole family at risk.
Relevance to the Hispanic community in the U.S.
This case underscores the importance of communities, including Latino families in Florida and other states, being aware of the resources available to address domestic violence.
Community organizations and hotlines such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) provide Spanish-language support, legal advice and shelter for victims who fear for their safety.
Experts recommend that anyone going through an abusive relationship seek immediate support, document incidents of violence and turn to authorities before the situation escalates.
La investigación reveló que el ataque fue planificado con antelación
QuéOnnda.com
