Episode 143 Leslie Rodriguez
27 year old Orlando, Florida resident, Leslie Rodriguez by all accounts was a positive force and good friend to those that knew her. She always had a smile, and brought happiness and positive energy to every situation. Described as a 'ray of sunshine', Leslie was a new mom to a young son, Roman and was looking to the next chapter in her life after breaking off a relationship with Roman's father, 28 year old Devin Griggs. Leslie's mom Eileen, and stepfather moved from Chicago to be closer to Leslie & Roman, and it should have been a great time for their family. But Devin was struggling leading up to the breakup with Leslie, and after, and had gone awol from the military before winding up in Orlando. Leslie had left him after he changed, and he began to act paranoid, and claimed people were watching him. Although Devin had never been violent with Leslie, that would all change on May 9, 2022 when he showed up at Leslie's apartment. Leslie let him in thinking he was there to see Roman, but he had other ideas. He pulled out a gun and shot Leslie multiple times, killing her. He then called 911 and told them what he had done, and that he was about to take his own life. Police raced to the scene but when they arrived, they found both Leslie and Devin dead. Miraculously, little Roman was physically unharmed, but sadly, he witnessed the violent deaths of his parents.
The senseless and tragic deaths have left two families devastated. Eileen had moved to Florida to be close to her daughter, and instead, she had to make funeral arrangements for her. Now she's focused on raising Roman, and ready to support him with any lingering effects from what he witnessed, and to answer the questions he will surely one day ask. Eileen discusses this tragic case, and whether or not it could have been prevented, and if there was any warning that this might happen.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, you can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. They also have a live chat line.
Veterans can also reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line responder. To text, send a message to 838255.
If you or someone you know needs help escaping from a domestic violence situation, please visit thehotline.org
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