Perth Amboy Man Accused Of Fatally Stabbing Wife With Kids Present

PERTH AMBOY, NJ — A man is accused of fatally stabbing his wife late Friday night in the city of Perth Amboy.

Wellinton Leonardo is charged with one count of first-degree murder, two weapons offenses and second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, as the prosecutor says he fatally stabbed his wife in the presence of children.

The woman killed has been identified by authorities as Rosana Rodriguez, 40.

At 2:57 a.m. Saturday, law enforcement received a 911 call to Bertrand Avenue, reporting a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers located a man and a woman lying on the kitchen floor. Both appeared to have been stabbed.

Rodriguez was transported to Bay Medical Center, where she was later pronounced dead. Her husband was brought to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital for further treatment.

Rodriguez and Leonardo were married, said Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone. The slain woman was the mother of four daughters, ages 13, 11, 3 and 11 months, according to this GoFundMe set up to raise money for the four girls.

"It is with broken hearts that we share the devastating loss of our dearest Rosanna, who was tragically murdered on 9/21/24 at just 40 years old," read the fundraising page. "She was a compassionate and caring soul who touched the lives of everyone around her. She was an aunt, sister, mother and daughter. Rosanna leaves behind four beautiful daughters, ages 13, 11, 3 and 11 months, who now face life without their mother."

"We are raising funds to help with her funeral arrangements and provide support for her children during this incredibly painful time. Any contribution is deeply appreciated. Thank you for your kindness and support."

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area is asked to call Detective Danny Hernandez of the Perth Amboy Police Department at 732-324-3805 or Detective Michelle Coppola of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-745-3477.