Tragic Thanksgiving Murder: Daughter Accused of Killing 84-Year-Old Mother in Long Island
On November 27, the night before Thanksgiving, a tragic incident occurred in Dix Hills, Long Island. Diana Bekatoros, 51 years old, was charged with stabbing her mother, Josephine Bekatoros, 84, in their family home. Police reports state the attack happened shortly after 9 PM, and Josephine had multiple stab wounds when authorities arrived.
Diana was arrested later that night at her home in Long Island City, Queens. While being taken to the precinct, she made unsettling statements to reporters. She said, “I never had a mother,” and responded oddly to a question about the stabbing by asking, “Are you my mother?”
Hours before the incident, the family had dinner together. Dennis Bekatoros, Josephine’s husband, reported that after dinner, he went to watch TV. When he returned, he found his wife seriously injured and called 911. Unfortunately, emergency efforts could not save Josephine, who had already died from her injuries.
The neighborhood, known for its peace and well-kept homes, was shaken by the murder. The Bekatoros residence quickly became a focus for police and the media.
Neighbors described Josephine as kind and well-groomed. She appeared to have a cordial relationship with Diana, who moved out of the family home around 15 years ago. However, Diana’s statements and the circumstances of the crime raised questions about their true relationship.
After her mother’s death, Diana was taken to the Hauppauge precinct, where the legal proceedings began. On Thanksgiving Day, she appeared in court for her first hearing, facing a charge of second-degree murder. Her behavior was unusual; she smiled as the judge read the charges, prompting a reprimand. The judge ordered a psychiatric evaluation to assess her mental state.
During the hearing, Diana pleaded not guilty. The court decided to hold her without bail due to the seriousness of the case and concerns about her mental health. Her defense attorney, Daniel Russo, declined to comment, stating he had not met with his client yet.
Diana’s next hearing is scheduled for December 3. This session will include preliminary results of her psychiatric evaluation to determine her competency for trial. The case has left the community in shock and speculation about the possible mental health issues that may have contributed to the crime.