Jamaica man charged with murder in beating death of neighbor

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The victim and defendant lived in an apartment building at 138th Street and 90th Avenue. Google Maps

The victim and defendant lived in an apartment building at 138th Street and 90th Avenue. Google Maps

By David Brand

A 38-year-old Jamaica man was charged with murder Thursday after he allegedly beat his downstairs neighbor to death with a metal rod inside the victim’s apartment.

Yomar Gonzalez was arraigned in Queens Supreme Court on murder and related charges after prosecutors say he kicked in the door of James Glover’s apartment and repeatedly struck Glover, 71, with the rod. Gonzalez allegedly returned to the apartment to call 911 early March 18 and stayed in the home until first-responders arrived.

Police told the Daily News that Gonzalez experienced mental illness and believed he could smell Glover “having sex with children.” 

“This was a senseless act of violence against an innocent septuagenarian in his own home,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz.

Gonzalez’s attorney did not respond to a request for comment. 

If convicted, Gonzalez faces 25 years-to-life in prison.