Portland, OR – A horrific act of domestic violence shook Portland after a 4-year-old girl dialed 911 to report that her father had fatally stabbed her mother. The victim, 24-year-old Neilyann Ysam, was killed on July 19, leaving behind five young children, all under the age of six.
A History of Abuse
Court records reveal a troubling pattern of violence between Ysam and her accused killer, 28-year-old S Mate Joseph. The couple’s history of abuse stretches back to 2019, when Joseph assaulted Ysam while she was pregnant.
At the time, witnesses described Ysam as “barefoot, screaming, crying, and attempting to get away” in Vancouver, Washington. The confrontation escalated when Joseph’s teenage brother allegedly threatened bystanders with a knife. Police fatally shot the 16-year-old during the incident, while Joseph was subdued with a stun gun and arrested.
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He later pleaded guilty to fourth-degree assault, harassment, and bail jumping, serving just 11 days in jail. Despite Ysam’s attempts to distance herself, Joseph’s presence would continue to haunt her.
The Fatal Attack
Six years later, Ysam had moved to Portland, where she was living with her aunt in an effort to escape Joseph. On July 19, Joseph allegedly entered the residence and attacked her with a knife while several children were inside.
The couple’s 4-year-old daughter provided a chilling account when she called 911. According to dispatchers, the child told them: “My dad killed my mom.”
Shortly after, Joseph himself called 911, admitting he had stabbed a “loved one” but claimed he was unsure if she was still alive. He fled before officers arrived, leaving Ysam mortally wounded and her children trapped inside the home.
Arrest and Criminal Charges
Joseph was captured three days later, on July 22, in Clark County, Washington. He was extradited to Oregon and booked into Multnomah County Jail.
Prosecutors have charged him with:
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Second-degree murder
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Burglary
During his court appearance, Joseph entered a not guilty plea. His trial date has not yet been set.
The Portland Police Bureau confirmed that all five of Ysam’s children were physically unharmed during the attack. They have since been placed in the care of relatives but remain under close supervision due to the trauma they experienced.
Impact on the Community
The tragedy has reignited discussion about the devastating cycle of domestic violence and the challenges survivors face in seeking protection. Advocates point out that Ysam’s relocation to Portland was an attempt to find safety, yet Joseph was still able to reach her.
Legal experts note that restraining orders and relocation often provide only temporary solutions, underscoring the need for stronger community and systemic support.
Neighbors and community members have expressed grief and outrage, while local organizations are renewing calls for increased resources for victims of domestic abuse.
The Role of a Child’s 911 Call
Authorities have highlighted the extraordinary courage of Ysam’s 4-year-old daughter, whose quick action provided critical details to first responders. While the call could not save her mother, it ensured officers were able to respond immediately and begin the search for Joseph.
Police emphasized that the case demonstrates the importance of teaching even young children how to use 911 in emergencies.
Next Steps in the Case
Joseph remains in custody at Multnomah County Jail as prosecutors build their case. Court officials are approaching the proceedings with particular sensitivity, given the involvement of multiple young children as witnesses and survivors.
Investigators continue to gather evidence, and the trial is expected to draw significant public attention. Advocates for victims of domestic violence say the case is a sobering reminder of the long-term dangers survivors face—even after leaving abusive partners.
A Call for Awareness and Prevention
As the Portland community mourns, local leaders and advocacy groups stress that resources are available for individuals experiencing domestic violence. Hotlines, shelters, and counseling services can provide both immediate protection and long-term support.
For many, Neilyann Ysam’s death serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the urgency of addressing domestic abuse before it escalates to tragedy.
