BRIDGEPORT, CT – A Norwalk man is facing murder charges in connection with the brutal death of his former mother-in-law, just days after her 70th birthday celebration. The suspect, identified as the ex-husband of the victim’s daughter, appeared in Bridgeport Superior Court on Tuesday, accused of carrying out a premeditated attack.
According to police reports, the family had recently gathered to mark the milestone birthday of the victim, who was a beloved matriarch. The joyous occasion has been overshadowed by the tragic events that unfolded just days later, leaving the family devastated and planning a funeral instead of future celebrations.
In court, the suspect, Elysia Shapatu, showed no visible reaction during his arraignment. Authorities allege that Shapatu ambushed the victim outside the luxury apartment complex in Trumbull where she resided. Security footage purportedly shows Shapatu approaching with a baseball bat, following the victim and an out-of-state relative back to the premises.
The attack, described by police as a “cold-blooded murder,” reportedly occurred in broad daylight, shocking the gated community. Witnesses and security cameras documented the harrowing incident, during which Shapatu allegedly struck his former mother-in-law repeatedly for a minute and a half.
Police apprehended Shapatu at the scene, where he allegedly claimed the victim had been trying to ruin his life. Court documents reveal that Shapatu blamed her for his divorce, financial woes, and the loss of his home. The couple had finalized their divorce four years prior, and Shapatu believed his ex-mother-in-law was the catalyst for his troubles.
The judge presiding over the case set Shapatu’s bond at $3 million, citing the gravity of the crime, the compelling evidence presented by the prosecution, and the potential risk he poses to the community. The victim’s family, meanwhile, is receiving substantial support from friends and neighbors as they navigate this difficult time.
Shapatu is scheduled to return to court on Friday, where his attorney plans to request protective orders to safeguard his family. As the community grapples with the shock of the event, many are rallying around the victim’s family, offering assistance and condolences.