UPDATE: A Sydney man has been found guilty of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Tatiana ‘Tanya’ Dokhotaru, just moments after her frantic call for help was tragically cut short. The verdict was delivered today in the NSW Supreme Court, marking a pivotal moment in a case that has gripped the nation.
On the night of May 26, 2023, Dokhotaru, 28, made a chilling call to emergency services, stating, “Yes, hi. My ex-boyfriend’s here and he’s trying to kill me.” Witnesses reported hearing her desperate pleas before the call abruptly ended. The jury’s decision to convict Danny Zayat, 30, by an 11-1 majority, underscores the severity of his violent actions against Dokhotaru.
This ruling comes after a month-long trial that revealed disturbing details of the relationship between Zayat and Dokhotaru. Prosecutors presented evidence of Zayat’s abusive behavior, including past violence and a pattern of controlling actions towards Dokhotaru. Text messages sent by Zayat prior to her death painted a conflicting picture; he expressed love and remorse but failed to acknowledge the danger he posed.
In one text dated May 6, 2023, Zayat wrote, “You will always be my first proper love, and I don’t think I could ever love anyone else like I love you.” However, the jury sided with the Crown, which highlighted multiple incidents of physical and emotional abuse.
Dokhotaru confided in friends about the violent nature of their relationship, detailing instances where Zayat allegedly dragged her by the hair and threatened her life. In a haunting message from April 13, 2023, she wrote, “I was fighting him off. I tried calling the cops but he said he’ll kill me if I do.” These harrowing accounts were crucial in the jury’s decision-making process.
As the verdict was announced, Justice Desmond Fagan dismissed defense pleas for a delayed sentencing, stating that Zayat would remain in custody until his sentencing on December 19, 2025. The urgency of this case reflects the broader issue of domestic violence that continues to affect many individuals across Australia and beyond.
The emotional impact of this trial resonates deeply, particularly with Dokhotaru’s parents, who live in Canada and were unable to attend the verdict. They have previously testified about the psychological toll of Zayat’s abusive behavior, reinforcing the tragedy of their daughter’s loss.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for awareness and action against domestic violence. As communities rally for change, the hope is that justice for Tatiana will inspire others to seek help and support in similar situations.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, and remember, if you or someone you know is in a dangerous situation, reach out for help immediately.
