A horrific crime unfolded in Queens this week, shaking our community to its core. A man allegedly took the life of his mother-in-law while viciously attacking her teenage son, all in a fit of intoxicated rage.

Weisheng Chen has been charged with six counts of murder, along with multiple weapon and arson charges, after this gruesome incident that saw him not only stab his victims but also ignite their home in a chilling display of violence. His actions were not those of a rational individual but rather the desperate acts of a man drowning in personal chaos.

At just 27 years old, Chen, reportedly reeling from a divorce, decided to unleash a torrent of violence at approximately 4 p.m. on Thursday in their Flushing residence. First, he stabbed Qiujin Shi, 50, and then turned his blade on her 17-year-old son, inflicting life-threatening injuries before igniting a mattress and slashing his own wrists in an apparent attempt to escape the consequences of his horrifying behavior.

Immediate chaos ensued. One victim staggered outside, screaming for help, attracting a Port Authority police officer who swiftly rendered aid and summoned first responders. Tragically, Shi was transported to NewYork Presbyterian Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries; her son remains in stable condition after this senseless act.

Witnesses described a scene filled with confusion and terror; family members heard screams followed by a deafening noise. Amid the panic, they discovered their loved ones gravely injured. One family member, wearing a VR headset, noted the chilling transition from quiet to chaos: “Then I heard loud yelling.” It was a grim awakening to the shocking violence that occurred just moments before.

Rouxin Lin, a 16-year-old cousin, recounted the moment she approached the scene: “I saw my cousin sitting on the staircase, bleeding, blood all over his body.” Such graphic imagery underscores the gravity of this situation—there was no warning, no visible signs of trouble.

“This is the first time this happened,” she said. “I never heard any fighting upstairs. It’s always calm.” Recall that the victim, Qiujin Shi, was remembered fondly as a “really kind person” and an excellent cook, highlighting the senselessness of this tragedy.

As Weisheng Chen awaits his arraignment in Queens Criminal Court, one thing is crystal clear: our community must demand justice. We cannot tolerate such acts of violence. It is time we stand united against those who think their personal turmoil justifies heinous actions.