Florida Man Arrested In Connection To Gilfriend’s Death After Initially Claiming She Killed Herself

A Florida man was arrested Thursday in connection to the death of his live-in girlfriend after initially telling police she died by suicide.

Joel Bauza, 50, is facing one count of first-degree homicide for the death of Joysee Cartagena, 40, according to the Sanford Police Department. 

Sanford police responded to a call about a woman found dead a little after 2 p.m. on July 17. Upon arrival, Sanford Fire and Rescue found Cartagena with a zip tie around her neck. She was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Bauza “made efforts during the initial investigation to push this case towards a suicide investigation.” He told investigators that he arrived home from work and “discovered Joysee deceased and face down on the floor,” according to WESH.

However, police announced on July 31 that the death was being investigated as suspicious, and an autopsy was requested. The autopsy ruled the death a suicide, listing the cause of death as manual strangulation. 

Arrest paperwork obtained by the outlet indicates the couple was experiencing relationship issues before Cartagena’s death. Cartagena’s son told investigators that she had begun an emotional relationship with a friend from high school, leading to a separation.

Bauza remains in jail without bond.