Fundraiser Started For Bergen Woman Found Dead In Parking Garage

HACKENSACK, NJ – A fundraiser is underway to cover funeral expenses for a 19-year-old woman who was found unresponsive in the back seat of her car in a Hackensack parking garage early Saturday morning.

Francis Victoria Garcia allegedly died from being choked by Michael Gaffney, 21, while the two were having sex, according to an affidavit of probable cause. Gaffney was arrested and charged with reckless manslaughter in connection with her death.

Garcia’s brother, Luis Banegas, organized a GoFundMe campaign for his sister, called “Francis’ Farewell.”

“My sister’s life was suddenly shortened by a coward leaving us with a deep sorrow. Her death is still under investigation and the person responsible for her death has been arrested. We ask that you please help our family gather enough funds to give my sister Francis Veronica Garcia a proper burial. Any amount donated will be greatly appreciated by us and we thank you in advance for your assistance and support. Every little bit counts,” he wrote.

According to the affidavit, Gaffney told authorities he knew Garcia through mutual friends and had spoken over social media in the last week to make plans to attend a friend’s party in Hackensack on Friday night. While at the party, Gaffney and Garcia went to her car to hang out, the affidavit says.

“There, the two engaged in sexual intercourse for approximately 20 minutes. At some point, Gaffney placed his hands around Garcia’s neck. She subsequently lost consciousness,” the affidavit says.

Gaffney is currently being held at Bergen County Jail without bond and is scheduled to be arraigned next week.