Names of Maine Group Home Killing Victim & Suspect Released

According to an article on the WMTW website, Portland police say a man is now facing a murder charge following the death of a woman at a Portland group home earlier this week.

According to the Portland Police Department, officers arrested 40-year-old Armando Javier Negrete, a resident of Shalom House at 503 Woodford Street.

The victim has been identified as 40-year-old Marlene McNeill of Gorham.

Investigators say Negrete allegedly stabbed McNeill. She was rushed to MaineHealth Maine Medical Center, where she later died from her injuries.

In a statement, Shalom House spokesperson Rick Finberg said the organization is devastated by the loss of McNeill, describing her as a valued team member whose compassion and commitment to the agency’s mission left a lasting impact on both coworkers and clients.

Mesvhack Tshov, who works in resident support, said McNeill supervised him and was an exceptional leader who consistently supported both staff and residents. He added that, in his experience, she stood out as one of the best program managers he had worked with.

Police say the incident happened just before 10 AM Monday. During the response, several residents were evacuated from the building using a ladder truck. Negrete was later transported to the Cumberland County Jail.

Authorities returned to the property Tuesday to document the scene and examine an outdoor area where a knife was recovered.

Shalom House is a nonprofit organization that provides support services for adults living with mental illness.

A GoFundMe has been started to raise money for McNeil's family.  You can donate HERE.

*NOTE - All suspects are considered innocent until being found guilty in a court of law