Candido Raul Rubio-Perez Arrested for the Stabbing Death of Estranged Wife Niurka Alfonso-Acevedo Outside Nashville Elementary School

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 14, 2025) — A Nashville community is in mourning following the tragic death of 52-year-old Niurka Alfonso-Acevedo, a beloved school custodian who was found fatally stabbed outside Chadwell Elementary School early Monday morning. Authorities have identified her estranged husband, Candido Raul Rubio-Perez, 54, as the prime suspect in what police believe was a targeted and premeditated act of domestic violence.

According to the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD), the incident occurred before students arrived on campus. A staff member arriving at the school at approximately 6:00 a.m. discovered Alfonso-Acevedo unresponsive in the parking lot and immediately contacted emergency services. Responding officers found that she had suffered multiple stab wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A Beloved School Employee

Alfonso-Acevedo had joined the custodial staff at Chadwell Elementary in 2024, where she was known for her strong work ethic, kind demeanor, and devotion to the school community. Staff members described her as a warm and caring individual who took pride in creating a clean and welcoming environment for students and faculty alike.

“She was the kind of person who went above and beyond for others, always smiling, always working hard,” said a fellow employee who worked alongside her.

Suspect Identified as Estranged Husband

Investigators quickly identified Candido Raul Rubio-Perez, Alfonso-Acevedo’s estranged husband, as the suspect in the homicide. Police believe Rubio-Perez had been lying in wait for Alfonso-Acevedo in the school’s parking lot and attacked her shortly after she arrived for work.

An arrest warrant for criminal homicide has been issued, and police are actively searching for Rubio-Perez. Authorities have warned the public that he should be considered armed and dangerous.

“We believe this was a deliberate act of violence stemming from a domestic relationship,” said MNPD spokesperson Don Aaron. “We are asking the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information about the suspect’s whereabouts.”

Safety at School and Support for the Community

Classes at Chadwell Elementary were delayed Monday morning as police secured the scene and began their investigation. No students were on campus at the time of the incident, and the school district has assured parents and staff that safety remains a top priority.

Grief counselors and support personnel have been made available to assist students and staff members affected by the tragedy. The Metro Nashville Public Schools released a statement expressing sympathy and support for Alfonso-Acevedo’s family, saying in part:

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Ms. Alfonso-Acevedo, who was a cherished part of our school family. Our hearts go out to her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

Police Seeking Public Assistance

The MNPD is urging anyone with information about Candido Raul Rubio-Perez’s whereabouts to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. A reward of up to $5,000 is available for information that leads to an arrest.

Rubio-Perez is described as 54 years old, with ties to the Nashville area. Officials have not released further details about a possible vehicle or direction of travel.

A Call to Address Domestic Violence

As the investigation continues, advocates are once again highlighting the devastating impact of domestic violence and calling for more public awareness and resources for victims. Alfonso-Acevedo’s death serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the need to take early warning signs seriously and ensure that those in vulnerable situations have access to protection and support.

Community members are encouraged to honor Alfonso-Acevedo’s memory by checking in on friends and loved ones, supporting local shelters and domestic violence programs, and remaining alert to signs of abuse.

For now, Nashville mourns the loss of a dedicated worker and caring soul, and law enforcement remains committed to securing justice for Niurka Alfonso-Acevedo.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788. Help is free and confidential.