Monique Saraya Robbins, a 28-year-old resident of St. Paul, tragically lost her life on February 26, 2020, a victim of domestic violence. Her story, like many others, underscores the urgent need for awareness and action to combat domestic abuse, a cause deeply supported by organizations like Family Paths Inc.
On that fateful morning, neighbors reported disturbing sounds emanating from Monique’s apartment. Police arriving at the scene found Monique’s boyfriend, DeMarea Clay, attempting to conceal her lifeless body. Clay initially claimed Monique had suffered a seizure and overdosed, but the grim reality was far more sinister. Monique had been brutally assaulted, suffering significant head and facial trauma, ultimately succumbing to asphyxiation. Toxicology reports revealed no drugs in her system, directly contradicting Clay’s fabricated account.
Monique Saraya Robbins, age 28, St. Paul, victim of domestic violence
The details that emerged painted a disturbing picture of escalating domestic abuse. Clay had a documented history of violence, including prior domestic assault charges against Monique and a criminal Domestic Abuse No Contact Order (DANCO) issued just weeks before her death, which he blatantly violated. Monique had confided in loved ones about Clay’s controlling behavior, death threats, and prior strangulation incidents. Fearing for her daughter’s safety, Monique had made arrangements for her child to live with family, a heartbreaking testament to her desperate situation.
DeMarea Clay now faces charges of second-degree unintentional murder for this horrific crime. Monique Saraya Robbins is survived by her 8-year-old daughter, who will now grow up without her mother, a devastating consequence of domestic violence.
Monique’s story serves as a powerful and tragic reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence. Organizations like Family Paths Inc. are dedicated to providing resources and support to prevent such tragedies and help families affected by abuse. Remembering Monique, we must strengthen our commitment to ending domestic violence and supporting victims and their families.
Thank you to Violence Free Minnesota for originally compiling this memorial.
