A GoFundMe has been started to support two young children and cover the cost of a funeral for a 20-year-old Salem mother whose boyfriend has been charged in connection with her killing.
Nayeli Nieves, the mother of a 3-year-old and 18-month-old, “would go above and beyond for her children,” a GoFundMe campaign organized by Jonathan and Veronica Castillo reads.
“Her love for them was limitless and unwavering, embodying selflessness and unconditional care,” the campaign continued.
Nieves’ death has left both children without parents or family to raise them.
“I ask that you find it in your heart to help the Nieves family raise the funds they need to get through this tough time,” the Castillos wrote. “Any amount, small or large, can make a significant impact on our lives. Let us show them that they are not alone and that we are here to support them.”
Nieves’ boyfriend, 33-year-old Pablo Vicente, was held without bail after pleading not guilty to killing Nieves last Tuesday, Aug. 8, according to the office of Essex District Attorney Paul F. Tucker.
He was arraigned in Salem District Court Tuesday on one count of murder in connection with his girlfriend’s disappearance and killing, Tucker’s office said in press release.
Investigators said Vicente confessed to choking the 20-year-old in front of her young children in the couple’s apartment at 12 Pope St. in Salem before disposing of her body three days later, CBS Boston reported.
Authorities launched a search for Nieves and arrested Vicente Tuesday morning, Tucker’s office said. Her body has yet to be found.
Community members gathered alongside Nieves’ family for a vigil that was held for at Riley Plaza in Salem at 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 14.
“She was a very great person and she was a great mother,” Nayeli Nieves’ sister, Thalia, said through tears, Boston25 reported. “She didn’t deserve this. She was an amazing person and she was always funny and she could always light up the room.”
“I wish I could see you one more time come walking through the door, but I know that is impossible,” Nieves other sister Beba said on Facebook. “I will hear your voice no more. I know you can feel my tears and you don’t want me to cry, yet my heart is broken because I can’t understand why someone so precious had to die.”
The Department of Children & Families has taken custody of Nieves’ children and her family plans on trying to get custody of them, CBS Boston reported. People interested in donating to the GoFundMe can click here.
