In a significant development, the shocking attack on Yunis Valdés on July 24 at her Miami-Dade apartment has taken a new turn. Manuel Salgado Peña, the main suspect and former partner of the victim, has been apprehended after evading capture for nearly a week. Meanwhile, Yunis's sister has spoken out, sharing a heart-wrenching account of the family's distress and the history of harassment that preceded the attempted murder.
Suspect Apprehended in Miami-Dade Stabbing Case
Authorities in Miami-Dade County announced the arrest of Manuel Salgado Peña early Friday morning. He faces serious charges, including attempted murder with a knife, robbery with assault, and aggravated assault. His arrest concludes an intense manhunt initiated following the attack at a northwest Miami-Dade apartment complex near NW 172 Street and NW 94 Court. The capture of Salgado Peña marks a crucial step forward in a case that has drawn widespread concern due to the violent nature of the act, which occurred in front of the victim's young daughter.
Heartbreaking Testimony: Victim's Sister Speaks Out
A week after the incident, Yunis Valdés's sister broke her silence, revealing chilling details to the media about that fateful day. Her account highlights the helplessness and deep trauma experienced by the family. "The little girl called me, screaming: 'Auntie, auntie... hurry, hurry... Manny is stabbing my mom...'" she recounted tearfully. This desperate call for help alerted the family to the tragedy unfolding in Yunis's apartment.
"I don't know what to say... I'm distraught over this whole situation," she admitted, visibly shaken. "I'm worried about my sister... the little girl, and us, the family..." she added. Beyond describing the horror of the moment, the sister denounced a long-standing pattern of harassment that had escalated after Yunis ended her relationship with Salgado Peña ten months ago. "My sister didn't want any contact with him... Constant harassment... she had to move out of Florida to escape him, hoping time would help... but he kept persisting," she explained.
Victim Remains in Critical Condition
Yunis Valdés, 48, continues to be hospitalized in critical condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital North. The attack left her with eight to ten stab wounds and caused severe damage to multiple vital organs: lungs, liver, colon, a kidney, and the pericardium. Her spleen was removed, and she has numerous defensive wounds on her hands, indicating her attempt to fend off the attack.
The crime scene was described as harrowing: blood on the stairwell, personal belongings scattered, and the victim severely injured as paramedics transported her on a stretcher. All of this unfolded in front of her young daughter, whose identity remains protected. Facing both medical and emotional challenges, the family also grapples with significant financial strain. They have set up a donation page to cover medical expenses and support the child.
"We are truly very worried," her sister reiterated. The family stands united in their hope for Yunis's recovery and in their pursuit of justice.
Key Questions about the Miami-Dade Stabbing Incident
What charges is Manuel Salgado Peña facing?
Manuel Salgado Peña has been charged with attempted murder with a knife, robbery with assault, and aggravated assault.
What is the current condition of Yunis Valdés?
Yunis Valdés remains in critical condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital North, with multiple severe injuries from the attack.
How is the family coping with the incident?
The family is deeply traumatized and worried, facing emotional and financial challenges as they seek justice and recovery for Yunis.