Divorces are not always a sad life event. Although the dissolution of marriage is certainly emotionally taxing, confusing, frustrating, and full of second-guessing, the actual divorce itself can be a blessing. Sometimes divorce is blissfully freeing, especially for a person leaving a toxic and restrictive marriage. I can’t personally relate because my husband and I are just two sides of the same coin, but I can imagine the relief people in those marriages must feel. Marriage is hard work even when it is going well, so anyone who is strong enough to take it on despite the unknown is pretty brave in my book.
Divorce, however, isn’t always a safe option, especially if the estranged former partner isn’t emotionally stable.
That may have been the cause of a Utah mom’s tragic murder.
Exactly one day after filing for divorce, Lindha Paola Zerpa Lara, a woman who was later identified by family, was found dead in her home from apparent blunt force trauma. Authorities found the body of a deceased male as well, Fox 13 reported. That person was identified as Manuel R. Ramirez Perez. His death appeared to be self-inflicted. Authorities were reportedly performing a wellness check at the request of friends and family in April 2026 before they made the gruesome discovery.
Police later reported that Perez was Lara’s ex-husband but did not reside in the same home.
According to Fox 13, police noted there was no history of domestic violence ever reported. Still, friends and family believe Perez had a hand in harming Lara before taking his own life.
Patricia Quinonez, a close friend of Lara’s, said the loss is felt by the entire community in Herriman, Utah, where the bodies were found.
“We’re very sad and emotional for this loss, for such a woman so brave,” Quinonez said. “This is the third Venezuelan woman who has died at the hands of a partner or ex-partner in Utah.”
The pair reportedly share a 10-year-old son who was not present at the time tragedy struck.
Quinonez and Lara’s other close friend, Fabian Rapalino, told KSL TV that Lara had allegedly planned to meet with Perez in her home April 17, noting the two appeared to have a “civil” relationship. They also reported that Lara had filed for divorce just one day before her death, and People verified that a woman with Lara’s name did file a petition.
Lara immigrated to the United States eight years ago and started her esthetician business, Pao Glow & Beauty in Salt Lake City, shortly afterward. The 43-year-old mom is remembered as “A person that was always trying to do the best for their community, the Venezuelan community,” and a “bright light to her mom,” Quinonez said, per KSL TV.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of domestic abuse, you can find help and support at DVIS.org, the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or by contacting your local women’s shelter (domesticshelters.org).
