Cops were called to Staten Island horror house repeatedly on domestic violence calls before shock decapitation: sources

A disturbing series of events unfolded at a Staten Island home before the tragic incident where teenager Damien Hurstel allegedly decapitated his mother’s boyfriend, Anthony Casalaspro. The house on Cary Avenue in West Brighton had been a hotspot for domestic violence incidents, with Casalaspro being listed as the perpetrator in at least five 911 calls dating back to 2021.

In one particularly harrowing incident in 2023, Casalaspro reportedly attacked Hurstel while under the influence of alcohol, leading to a physical altercation where he also slapped Hurstel’s mother. Despite police intervention earlier in the day, Casalaspro returned to the home and the violence ensued.

Neighbors living on the quiet street recounted witnessing distressing scenes unfold at the house, including an incident where Hurstel’s mother suffered a broken leg. One neighbor described hearing the mother’s screams and witnessing the gruesome aftermath of the incident.

The first reported domestic violence incident involving Casalaspro in 2021 saw him allegedly breaking things in the home while inebriated and claiming to have a handgun, which was never found. Casalaspro, who had been on disability due to severe vision loss, also had a criminal record dating back to 2000, with charges related to drug selling.

Further incidents involving Casalaspro included possession of a gravity knife in 2015 and an assault and reckless driving incident in 2020. Hurstel, who was known to have mental health issues, also had troubling episodes that prompted calls to 911, including instances where he threatened suicide and self-harmed.

Despite the turmoil that plagued the household, Hurstel’s mother and other family members declined to comment on the events leading up to the tragic incident. The community was left shocked and saddened by the gruesome outcome of the escalating violence within the troubled home.

The tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help and intervention in such situations. The lives lost and the trauma endured in the wake of such incidents highlight the urgent need for support and resources for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence.