Niagara Falls Man Deemed Unfit for Trial in After Horrific Assault Leading to Death of Woman

A Niagara Falls resident has been indicted on a manslaughter charge following a deadly assault at a People Inc. group home. However, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office announced today that he has been declared mentally unfit to stand trial.

Daniel Abbotoy, 26, was formally arraigned Monday on one count of first-degree manslaughter in connection with a violent incident on April 1st at a People Inc. facility on Heritage Road. Authorities say Abbotoy inflicted severe injuries on 56-year-old Diana Robinson of Amherst who later died at Erie County Medical Center on April 15.

A police report from the Town of Tonawanda details that Abbotoy admitted to assaulting Robinson by slamming her head into a window, pulling her hair, and biting her. He reportedly told investigators he was angry and claimed, “it was an accident.” The assault left Robinson with a broken neck and triggered multiple cardiac arrests.

Initially charged with first-degree assault and held without bail, Abbotoy was subjected to a court-ordered forensic psychiatric evaluation. The assessment concluded he lacks the mental capacity to face trial at this time.

As a result, a judge has ordered Abbotoy to remain in the care of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. His case will be revisited on August 6th to reassess his competency to proceed with legal proceedings.

Niagara Falls Man Deemed Unfit for Trial in After Horrific Assault Leading to Death of Woman