Bronx Night Out Turns Deadly
A quiet evening in the Bronx quickly turned into a nightmare. Franklin Batallas, 44, initially claimed his girlfriend was stabbed in a roadside ambush. What began as a story of survival has since unraveled, leading to a murder investigation. Batallas now faces multiple charges, including murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon, after the tragic death of 30-year-old Anthonella Contreras Linarez. The case has shaken the Bronx community and left a grieving family searching for answers.
The Fatal Night
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on September 15, 2025, near Park Drive and City Island Road. Batallas told investigators that he and Linarez were heading to dinner on City Island when she needed a bathroom break. He said they pulled over near Rodman’s Neck.
According to Batallas, two men on a moped appeared with knives, attempted to rob Linarez, and stabbed her when she resisted. He claimed he ran for help, suffered a stab wound himself, and then rushed her to New Rochelle Montefiore Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Authorities later confirmed Linarez suffered severe stab wounds to her face, neck, and body. Batallas was treated for minor injuries and released. But investigators quickly discovered evidence that contradicted his account.
No Moped, No Ambush
Surveillance footage painted a different picture. NYPD and Department of Transportation cameras captured the couple driving to Seafood City at 6:15 p.m., with no moped or attackers in sight.
When pressed, Batallas maintained the attackers wore “dark-colored hoodies” and even claimed one entered the vehicle to stab Linarez while he stood outside. Detectives found no evidence to support his story.
Batallas was arraigned Saturday in Manhattan Criminal Court and remains held without bail at Rikers Island. His attorney has declined to comment.
Family’s Heartbreak
The couple had been together for three years and planned to meet a friend that night. Loved ones expressed shock, noting no prior signs of conflict.
“He was like a brother-in-law to us,” said Mayker Contreras, Linarez’s sibling. “This is such an emotional shock. I don’t know how to feel.” She added, “My sister was wonderful. She loved everyone. She loved to travel, especially to the Dominican Republic. But her life was taken too soon.”
The family rejects Batallas’ story. “The only question I have for him is: ‘What happened?’ We just want the truth. I don’t trust anything he says,” Contreras said.
Linarez’s LinkedIn profile shows she was a dedicated BSN RN, experienced in acute rehab care and med-surg coverage. She described herself as “ready to thrive and grow in diverse healthcare environments.”
Tributes Pour In
After her death, tributes flooded social media. Friends and colleagues shared messages of love and remembrance.
“See you soon, dear friend and sister, from always and forever,” one wrote. Another added, “Your memory will live forever. Thank you for all the time we shared.”
Linarez’s sudden death has devastated family and friends, shattering the image of a loving, stable partnership.
Investigation Continues
As authorities continue their investigation, Franklin Batallas remains in custody without bail. Loved ones mourn a woman remembered for her kindness, ambition, and the lasting impact she left on everyone around her.
