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Teen Arrested for Allegedly Decapitating Stepfather in Staten Island

10/8/2025

30 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Damien Hurstel, 19, was arrested in Staten Island for allegedly decapitating his stepfather, Anthony Casalaspro, with a hacksaw.
Casalaspro, a retired sanitation worker, was found in a bathtub with stab wounds and a knife embedded in his neck.
Hurstel's sister discovered the body after returning from school and said he admitted to doing "something bad".

History

Historical Context

The "Son of Sam" murders in 1966 shocked New York City, occurring during a year when the NYPD reported over 1,000 homicides, reflecting a rising crime wave. This period highlighted significant issues surrounding violence and mental health, as seen in the case of Damien Hurstel, whose violent act against his stepfather echoed a troubling trend of familial homicides in urban areas, raising ongoing concerns about societal safety.

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Story summary

Damien Hurstel, 19, was arrested in Staten Island for allegedly decapitating his stepfather, Anthony Casalaspro, with a hacksaw.
Casalaspro, a retired sanitation worker, was found in a bathtub with stab wounds and a knife embedded in his neck.
Hurstel's sister discovered the body after returning from school and said he admitted to doing "something bad".

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