Women are often unfairly questioned for not saying “no” directly in situations where men behave aggressively, overlooking the complexities of power, fear, and safety that influence their responses.
Edwin Cruz Gomez, 38, harassed Jhoanny Alvarez, 16, and her mother with sexual propositions. The women rejected his overtures. As the family walked away, officials say Gomez struck them with his vehicle, pinning Jhoanny against a pole and causing fatal injuries at the scene; her mother also sustained leg injuries and was hospitalized for treatment.
After fleeing the scene, Gomez approached police a few blocks away, claiming he had been assaulted, and subsequently led officers back to the site of the incident. His blood alcohol content was measured at 0.137%, significantly exceeding the legal limit.
He was arraigned on multiple felony counts, including murder, attempted murder, and vehicular manslaughter, and faces a possible 25 years to life in prison if convicted.
