By Joe Anuta
A 30-year-old former Queens man was indicted in the grisy 2009 rape and murder of an Astoria woman, the Queens district attorney said Thursday.
Convicted felon Jose Martinez was linked to the murder of then 23-year-old Carmen Saldana through DNA evidence, DA Richard Brown said.
“The young woman, Carmen Saldana, was just 23 years old. She had a bright and promising future which was abruptly cut short by her brutal and senseless murder, allegedly at the hands of the defendant. This case will be vigorously prosecuted to ensure that justice is served on behalf of the victim and her family,” Brown said.
In July 2009, Martinez offered to walk Saldana home after a party in Long Island City, but after arriving at her home she refused to let him come inside, Brown said.
Martinez kicked in the door, then allegedly raped and murdered her, the DA said.
He was hit with a slew of charges in Queens Criminal Court including second-degree murder and first-degree rape in connection to Saldana’s death, Brown said.
Martinez had previously pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment in connection to a 2011 attack on a cab driver, the DA said.
Reach reporter Joe Anuta by e-mail at januta@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4566.
