Man Sentenced to Life for Setting Sister’s Ex-Boyfriend on Fire. Bronx native Adones Betances was sentenced to life without parole in 2020 for viciously murdering his sister’s ex-boyfriend Winston Ortiz. Betances was convicted guilty of stabbing and burning Ortiz to death.
According to Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark, “Winston Ortiz was killed in a torturous manner; stabbed and then set afire while he was still alive, because the defendant was upset that his sister and Winston had a relationship.”
“He rejects redemption. Killing is his goal. After prison, he’ll do this again or worse. Fear for my life. My little brother’s life worries me. I worry about my family.”
Since meeting at church, Ortiz, 18, had been dating Betances’ younger sister. He was caring and family-oriented. Churchgoer and brain aneurysm survivor Ortiz died abruptly.
Betances committed the premeditated assault despite Ortiz and Betances’ sister’s breakup. Ortiz, in his final moments, identified Betances as his attacker to responding officers, highlighting the savagery of the crime.
Ortiz’s family saw police bodycam footage of the dying teen identifying his attacker and pleading for forgiveness, which was emotionally draining. Betances’ acts caused Ortiz’s family great sorrow, yet the defendant showed no remorse.
The Ortiz family begged the judge to sentence Betances to life without parole out of worry for their safety and the possibility of more violence. William Ortiz, Winston’s brother, said, “He doesn’t desire redemption. Killing is his goal. After prison, he’ll do this again or worse. Fear for my life. My little brother’s life worries me. I worry about my family.”
As Betances begins his life sentence, Winston Ortiz’s tragic death reminds us of the catastrophic effects of senseless violence and the need of justice for victims and their families.
The Bronx mourns Winston Ortiz’s needless death as Adones Betances begins his life sentence. His family has suffered greatly since Ortiz’s death, but the sentencing gives some finality. However, it highlights the need for justice in the face of such horrible atrocities.
Betances will spend the rest of his life in prison, but his actions have far-reaching effects. His family mourns Winston Ortiz and struggles with his violent death. As they grieve the death of a son, brother, and friend, their healing will be difficult.
The community must confront violence and trauma, especially among youth, after Ortiz’s death. His death—caused by jealously and rage—shows the dangers of unresolved conflict and unbridled emotions. It reminds us of the significance of healthy relationships, dispute resolution, and helping others.
As the Bronx mourns this tragedy, it must also pledge to prevent future disasters. Investing in poverty, inequality, and mental health care addresses the core causes of violence. It also demands promoting accountability and responsibility, where people are held to the highest standards and encouraged to seek help when needed.
Adones Betances’ sentencing ends a tumultuous Bronx chapter. Ortiz’s family may feel justice, but Betances’ acts have traumatized them. The community must honor Ortiz by working hard to make society safer and more empathetic.
