STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The lives of three Staten Island residents were cut short this year in violent acts: a devoted mother and grandmother trying to protect her daughter, a young man shot in broad daylight and a stepfather killed inside his own home.
Their deaths left families grieving and communities shaken, a reminder that behind city homicide statistics are real lives and stories worth remembering.
Jennira Roundtree, 43
On Tuesday, Jan. 7, 43-year-old Jennira Roundtree was fatally stabbed in the courtyard of the West Brighton Houses, where she lived. She was attempting to rescue her daughter from a violent confrontation, a law enforcement source said at the time. A mother of four and grandmother of one, Roundtree was described by friends and neighbors as fiercely protective.
In the days after the slaying, family, friends and neighbors shared messages of condolence online. “I was just talking to my cousin last week,” one mourner wrote. “I’m so heartbroken right now.” Another added, “Wow, my heart just stopped! Love you, sis. I’m truly speechless right now.”…