UPDATE: A jury has just found Danny Zayat guilty of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Tatiana ‘Tanya’ Dokhotaru, in her apartment on May 26, 2023. This shocking verdict follows a month-long trial and reveals chilling details surrounding her final moments during a frantic call to emergency services.
On the night of the murder, Dokhotaru, 28, made a desperate 89-second call to emergency operators, stating, “Yes, hi. My ex-boyfriend’s here and he’s trying to kill me.” This call ended abruptly, leaving her family and friends haunted by its implications.
Zayat, 30, was convicted by a majority verdict in the NSW Supreme Court. His defense argued that the texts he sent Dokhotaru prior to her death, which expressed love and regret, undermined claims of violence. However, evidence of his prior abusive behavior and control over her ultimately swayed the jury.
In harrowing messages read in court, Dokhotaru confided in friends about the violence she endured. “I was fighting him off. I tried calling the cops but he said he’ll kill me if I do,” she texted on April 13. Another message detailed a brutal strangulation, stating, “He strangled me so bad, my throat is so bruised and swollen, I can barely breathe.”
The prosecution presented extensive evidence of Zayat’s violent history, including repeated threats and physical abuse. His barrister, Madeleine Avenell SC, suggested that Dokhotaru’s fatal brain injuries could have been accidental rather than inflicted. However, the jury’s 11-1 verdict indicated overwhelming belief in the Crown’s case.
Dokhotaru’s parents, who live in Canada, testified about their daughter’s struggles with Zayat’s abusive behavior, revealing a pattern of control and intimidation. They were not present in Australia for the verdict but have been vocal about their daughter’s plight.
Zayat has been remanded in custody and is scheduled for sentencing on December 19. Justice Desmond Fagan denied defense requests to delay sentencing, emphasizing the urgency of the case.
This tragic case highlights the critical issue of domestic violence and its devastating consequences. The emotional toll on Dokhotaru’s family and friends underscores the urgent need for societal change and increased support for victims.
As this story develops, many are left questioning the systems in place to protect individuals from such violence. The community is urged to remain vigilant and supportive of those affected by domestic abuse.
Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to monitor this evolving situation.
