Brooklyn, NY – The close-knit community of East 56th Street is reeling after the shocking discovery of 66-year-old Claudette Jones, who was found stabbed to death in her apartment on Tuesday afternoon. Jones, a long-time resident of the neighborhood, was discovered unresponsive in her kitchen with multiple stab wounds at approximately 3 p.m. Despite the swift response of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The violent nature of Jones’ death has left her neighbors in disbelief. Known as a kind and gentle person, Jones had lived in the area for many years and was well-liked by those who knew her. "She does not deserve, she did not deserve the way she passed away at all," said neighbor Jayna Simeon, reflecting the shock felt throughout the community.
Fear and uncertainty have gripped the neighborhood, with residents expressing their concern over the circumstances surrounding the murder. "It’s very scary because we don’t know just somebody walking around here basically, it’s very scary," shared Shay Thomas, another resident.
Neighbors reported hearing disturbing noises from Jones’ apartment in the weeks leading up to her death. Jayna Simeon mentioned that her sister’s room was close to Jones’, and they had frequently heard screaming. "Recently we’ve heard… some men respond back to her saying to stop screaming and shut up. Which was weird, unusual," Simeon explained.
Jones’ life had been marked by hardship. A former nurse, she had suffered an injury that left her unable to work. Despite her challenges, Jones remained a familiar presence in the neighborhood, often seen walking around and offering a smile or blessing to those she encountered. Her home had also suffered from a fire in November 2022, rendering it uninhabitable for a time. However, Jones returned to live there after the tenants moved out.
The investigation into Claudette Jones’ murder is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. As the community mourns the loss of a beloved neighbor, they are left to grapple with the uncertainty of who could have committed such a horrific act and why. The impact of Jones’ death will be felt deeply by those who knew her, and the search for justice continues.