Young Mother Killed in Atlantic City Apartment Shooting Days After Arriving in U.S.
A tragic shooting in Atlantic City has left a young mother dead and a man facing serious criminal charges, according to authorities. The incident happened late in the evening on April 22, turning what began as a normal dinner gathering into a deadly situation.
Police say the victim, 22-year-old Jaylou Marlenne Pineda Lopez, had just finished dinner with two companions inside an apartment located on the 2200 block of Hamilton Avenue. The group was spending time together when events suddenly took a violent turn. While one individual began clearing dishes, Pineda Lopez and Franklin J. Felipe De La Paz were seated on a couch.
According to court documents, an argument broke out between the two. During the dispute, Felipe De La Paz allegedly picked up a firearm that was on the sofa. Authorities say he began moving toward the stairs while pointing or waving the gun in Pineda Lopez’s direction. Moments later, he pulled the trigger, shooting her in the head.
Emergency response details were not outlined in the report, but the shooting proved fatal. The shocking nature of the incident has raised concerns about gun safety and the consequences of escalating conflicts in close environments.
Investigators later searched the apartment and discovered additional concerning evidence. A 9mm ammunition magazine capable of holding up to 30 rounds was reportedly found inside a drawer in the suspect’s bedroom. This discovery became part of the charges filed against him.
Felipe De La Paz, 26, was not immediately arrested after the incident. Authorities tracked him down eight days later in Pleasantville, where he was taken into custody. He now faces charges including aggravated manslaughter and unlawful possession of a large-capacity ammunition magazine.
Court records show that he is scheduled to appear for a pre-indictment conference on June 17. At this time, there is no attorney listed for him in official records.
The victim’s death has deeply affected those who knew her. Pineda Lopez had recently moved to the United States from La Romana, Dominican Republic, arriving in March 2025. She had started building a new life and was working as a nail technician.
She leaves behind a three-year-old daughter, along with her partner, parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family. Her loss is being felt not only by her relatives but also by friends who described her as a kind and joyful person.
According to her obituary, she was known for her love of laughter and her strong bond with her family, especially her young daughter. Her sudden and violent death has left many in shock and mourning.
Authorities continue to handle the case as it moves through the legal system, while the community reflects on the devastating impact of the incident.
Sources:
Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office
Local law enforcement reports and court documents
