In a tragic incident that unfolded in Portage Park earlier this week, 54-year-old nanny, Lacramioara Beldie, was fatally stabbed allegedly by her husband, Constantin Beldie, as reported by the Block Club Chicago. The accused was later found dead in a car nearby. The couple had a history of domestic abuse, with Lacramioara previously seeking protection orders against Constantin.
Lacramioara Beldie, affectionately referred to as Mirela by friends, was remembered by her children for her kindness and nurturing spirit. The family has now to quickly organize a GoFundMe page to raise money for her funeral expenses, including the costs to transport her body back to her native Romania. The campaign, which aims to gather $20,000, had reached approximately $13,500 by Saturday morning. "Her soul was a ray of light," wrote her daughter Ani Beldie, as she recalled her mother's enduring warmth and kindness.
The Chicago Sun-Times further reports that Lacramioara, through her work, touched the lives of many families, building lasting relationships and leaving a legacy etched in the hearts of those she supported. The fundraising page details the impact she had on the children she cared for and the dedication she brought to her role.
The circumstances leading to Lacramioara Beldie’s death have brought the Cook County justice system under scrutiny. Constantin Beldie, charged with his wife's murder, had a previous record of violence towards her. Despite this, he was released on GPS monitoring after being charged. Domestic violence advocates and elected officials have voiced their concern, suggesting that the system failed to protect Lacramioara. An off-duty police detective who attempted to intervene during the stabbing incident, sustained a non-life-threatening injury, according to authorities.
