Suspect in SoHo Hotel Murder: Almansoori Troubled Past and Ongoing Menace Revealed”
Raad Almansoori, the man accused of brutally murdering Denisse Oleas-Arancibia in a SoHo hotel, has a troubled history marked by mental health issues, criminal behavior, and a propensity for violence, according to revelations from his half-sister in an interview with the Daily News.
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Almansoori
Almansoori, recently arrested in Arizona for stabbing two women, is also suspected in the murder of Oleas-Arancibia, whose body was found strangled and bludgeoned at the SoHo 54 hotel on February 8. His half-sister expressed concern, stating, “If they let him free again, who knows what else could happen.”
Diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia at a young age, Almansoori’s mental health challenges led to estrangement from his family. His sister, the only family member still in contact, highlighted his misogynistic tendencies, expecting preferential treatment, and exhibiting delusions, including communicating with God.
Throughout his life, Almansoori faced legal troubles, spending time in reform school for threatening his mother and later being arrested multiple times for offenses ranging from marijuana possession to aggravated assault. His sister emphasized that Almansoori often manipulated the mental health system, using his diagnosis strategically to secure release from facilities.
Despite efforts by family members to help, Almansoori’s violent outbursts persisted. His sister recounted instances of property damage, violent behavior towards his mother, and a general refusal to take medication. She refused to provide bail money during his arrests, fearing for the safety of potential victims.
Almansoori’s unstable lifestyle made tracking his movements challenging, and his sister lost touch after loaning him money in 2021. They reconnected in 2023 after he moved to Florida, where he faced charges for kidnapping and assaulting a sex worker. Almansoori returned to New York in January 2024, attempting a fresh start, but authorities arrested him in Arizona before he could potentially commit further crimes.
The sister expressed relief at his arrest, suspecting that it may have prevented additional violence. She speculated that Almansoori might have harbored a vendetta against her ex-husband, who had previously pressed charges against him.
The revelations about Almansoori’s troubled past underscore the challenges in managing individuals with severe mental health issues within the criminal justice system and highlight the need for comprehensive support and intervention measures.
