Boston

Roxbury Husband Accused of Fatally Stabbing Wife Faces Judge

The suspect is accused of fatally stabbing his wide, 38-year-old Dora Chaves

The Boston man accused of stabbing his wife to death in an apparent case of domestic violence appeared in court on Monday.

Wearing a white jumpsuit and covering his head, Valdir Chaves, 43, of Roxbury, was arraigned on murder in Roxbury District Court. After not guilty pleas were entered on his behalf, the judge ordered him held without bail.

Chaves was arrested Sunday afternoon after police responded to a call of a stabbing on Clarence Street. At the scene, officers found a woman later identified as 38-year-old Dora Chaves suffering from multiple stab wounds.

The victim was taken to an area hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries, Boston police said.

Prosecutors say police had gone to the third-floor apartment because Dora Chaves had asked to have her husband leave due to an argument that had started the previous night. He left but came back later and went into a bedroom with his wife, authorities said.

"The door was locked. People could hear first argument and then the victim screaming. Mr. Chavez came out with blood on him," Suffolk County Assistant District Attorney Ian Polumbaum said.

Investigators say Chaves told them doesn't remember stabbing his wife but he apparently told police he was ready to be arrested when they returned to the apartment.

Defense attorney Earl Howard says Chaves is remorseful as well as confused about what happened. He said his client does understand the charges.

Chaves' attorney added that the couple shared four children from different relationships. Some of the younger children were at home when the attack occurred.

"It's disastrous by no stretch of the imagination and his concern is the kids," Howard said outside of court.

One neighbor told NBC10 Boston the couple lived on the street for nearly 15 years.

"Very surprised. He was a very nice guy," the woman said.

The couple's landlord said the victim mentioned she was going to kick her husband out because of his recent behavior.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Boston Police Homicide Detectives at 617-343-4470. Anonymous tips can be made by contacting CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS.

Chaves is due back in court Sept. 13.

Contact Us