Man Charged with Killing Woman, Hiding Body in Rochester Apartment

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rochester police have arrested 47-year-old Jose Davila and charged him with second-degree murder after he allegedly killed 57-year-old Maria Benitez on January 22 and hid her body in her St. Paul Street apartment for several days until it was discovered by authorities conducting a welfare check.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the need for increased awareness and resources to address domestic violence, as well as the importance of community members looking out for one another and reporting any suspicious activity or concerns to the authorities.

The details

According to police, Davila was staying at Benitez's apartment when the two got into an altercation on January 22, during which Davila allegedly hit and kicked Benitez around the head, leading to her death. Davila then reportedly concealed Benitez's body within the apartment until it was ultimately discovered by police responding to a welfare check on the tenant who had not been seen for at least a week.

• The incident occurred on January 22, 2026.
• Benitez's body was discovered by police several days later, on January 29, 2026.

What’s next

Davila is scheduled to be arraigned on Thursday morning.