JENSEN BEACH, Fla. — A 55-year-old woman was fatally shot early Sunday at her custom sewing business, leading to the arrest of her boyfriend on charges of second-degree murder. The Martin County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as Tonya Sidebottom and her boyfriend, 43-year-old Javier Saenz, as the suspected shooter.
Deputies apprehended Saenz shortly after the incident, which occurred around 12:30 a.m. at the couple’s temporary residence, described as a storage unit facility. Sheriff John Budensiek indicated that the couple was facing housing instability and may have been struggling with homelessness.
During a 911 call, Saenz reportedly made statements that raised suspicions among dispatchers. They heard a woman screaming in distress in the background. Despite the chaos, Sidebottom managed to communicate with paramedics upon their arrival, revealing that Saenz delayed calling emergency services for at least ten minutes after the shooting.
While Sidebottom did not name Saenz as her attacker on the call, authorities noted that he inadvertently disclosed critical information. When asked where the victim was shot, he responded, “in the chest,” which helped implicate him in the shooting.
Saenz has a documented criminal history and was under a temporary risk protection order initiated by law enforcement in Port St. Lucie last year. This prior action had resulted in the seizure of multiple firearms from his possession, including one found at the scene, identified as the weapon used in the fatal shooting.
As the case unfolds, a memorial has been established outside Sidebottom’s business to celebrate her life and contributions to the community. Friends remembered her for her caring nature and dedication to helping others. “She was someone who always made sure people were comfortable,” recalled Chris Ek, a close friend.
Saenz is currently being held at the Martin County Jail while detectives continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities are actively working to determine a motive for the shooting as they gather additional evidence.