Tragic Incident in Astoria Linked to Family History of Violence

A father from Queens, suspected of murdering his wife in a shocking incident that appears to be a murder-suicide, has a troubling familial background. His brother, who shot him five years prior, adds to a tale marked by violence.

Joseph Azaretto, 33, was discovered hanging from a tree in Astoria Park early Tuesday, just hours after he is believed to have stabbed 34-year-old Mary Kate Golding to death at her home, as reported by police and officials.

This unsettling event is unfolding as investigators explore the possibility of murder-suicide. It comes six years after an earlier family tragedy when Azaretto’s brother, Nicholas, was charged with killing another family member.

In February 2020, 20-year-old Nicholas reportedly shot their father, Frank Azaretto, during a violent argument inside their Monroe County, Pennsylvania home. The shooting was described as a reaction to escalating tensions.

Nicholas faced charges of third-degree murder and voluntary manslaughter. However, court hearings revealed his father’s abusive behavior, suggesting a complex backdrop to the incident.

Frank Azaretto had allegedly returned home after a job in the Bronx, angry over a phone bill dispute. Reports indicate that he raged through the house, throwing objects and making threats towards his wife.

During this upheaval, a young Nicholas emerged from his room, confused by the shouting. “What is he screaming?” he asked, to which his mother reportedly replied, “I really don’t know.”

Seconds later, Nicholas grabbed a shotgun from his bedroom and tragically shot himself. Following these events, he pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was handed a 10-year probation sentence, two of which require electronic monitoring.

In the recent case, neighbors stated that Golding and Joseph Azaretto had relocated to Astoria from Pennsylvania just two months prior. Reports indicate that Joseph had engaged in a physical altercation with repo agents regarding his vehicle, among other concerning behaviors since his arrival in Queens. One local official noted, “He was mentally disturbed. We knew that from the time he got here.”

Golding was a New York University graduate and worked as a set decoration assistant on projects like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Goosebumps,” according to her online profiles. It appears that both she and Joseph had ties to the film industry.

Golding’s family has chosen not to comment on the situation at this time.