Syracuse, NY – July 19, 2025 — A 56-year-old Syracuse man has been formally charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of Nicole Azzoto, a 40-year-old woman also from Syracuse, in a case that has sent ripples of shock and sorrow throughout the community.
Authorities announced late Friday that Anthony Price, 56, was arrested and charged after an intensive investigation by the Syracuse Police Department’s Homicide Unit. The charge stems from a suspicious death investigation that began earlier this week after Nicole Azzoto’s body was discovered under circumstances that police immediately deemed suspicious.
According to law enforcement officials, police were called to a residential address in the city’s Northside on Monday after receiving a 911 call regarding an unresponsive woman. Upon arrival, officers and paramedics found Nicole Azzoto with severe injuries that were inconsistent with an accident or natural causes. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly began gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and reviewing surveillance footage from the area. The details of their findings have not been fully released, but officials confirmed that Azzoto’s death was the result of intentional violence, leading them to classify it as a homicide.
As the investigation progressed, Anthony Price emerged as a person of interest, and detectives say that mounting physical evidence and witness statements ultimately led to his arrest. Police have not publicly confirmed the exact nature of the relationship between Price and Azzoto, though some reports suggest they may have known each other prior to the incident.
Price was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Onondaga County Justice Center. He has been charged with murder in the second degree, a Class A-1 felony under New York State law, and is expected to be arraigned in Syracuse City Court in the coming days.
Remembering Nicole Azzoto
The death of Nicole Azzoto has devastated those who knew her. Described by friends and family as a kind-hearted, generous, and resilient woman, Nicole was a Syracuse native who had deep ties to her community. She is remembered for her love of animals, her sense of humor, and her ability to uplift others, even during her own difficult times.
“She had a big heart,” said one longtime friend. “She didn’t deserve this. None of us can make sense of it.”
Neighbors and loved ones have placed flowers and candles outside Nicole’s home as a growing memorial to honor her life. Plans for a community vigil are currently underway, with organizers emphasizing a message of justice, healing, and prevention of further violence.
Police Statement and Community Reaction
In a brief statement, the Syracuse Police Department acknowledged the pain the case has caused within the community and emphasized their ongoing commitment to seeking justice.
“This is a tragic and senseless loss of life,” said a spokesperson. “Our detectives have worked tirelessly to ensure that justice is pursued. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Nicole Azzoto.”
Community members and advocacy groups have echoed those sentiments while also calling for broader conversations about domestic violence, mental health, and safety resources in Syracuse. The incident has reignited dialogue around how communities can better protect vulnerable individuals and provide early intervention before situations escalate to deadly outcomes.
What Comes Next
As of now, Anthony Price remains in custody without bail. Prosecutors are working with Syracuse Police to continue building the case as it proceeds through the legal system. Investigators urge anyone with additional information regarding the events leading up to Nicole Azzoto’s death to come forward. Tips can be submitted confidentially to the Syracuse Police Department’s Homicide Tip Line or via Crime Stoppers of Central New York.
Meanwhile, those mourning Nicole’s loss are left grappling with grief and unanswered questions — but also with a shared determination to remember her life and to demand justice in her name.
Rest in peace, Nicole Azzoto. Your light, though extinguished too soon, will never be forgotten.
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