Man arrested for allegedly killing his wife during domestic violence in Hayward

A Hayward man was arrested for allegedly killing his wife after a police investigation into her death was initially ruled suspicious, authorities said.

Hayward police said the incident occurred Sept. 23 near the 27000 block of Eucalyptus Court in the neighborhood south of Tennyson High School. A person called 911 after a family member at a residence reported something was happening inside the home, police said.

When officers arrived, they found the victim, 47-year-old Tania Afanador, unresponsive and was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers also discovered that 47-year-old Alvaro Sierra had sustained injuries from apparent self-inflicted cuts, police said.

Sierra was taken to a hospital for treatment and was arrested Saturday while she was still recovering in the hospital. On Sunday, Sierra was released and subsequently held at Santa Rita Prison in Dublin on murder charges, police said.

The circumstances of Afanador's death were not disclosed. Police said Afanador and Sierra were legally married, living together and had no children.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Tania’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. The dedication of our entire department, from investigators to supporting teams, was critical in solving this case,” Police Chief Bryan Matthews said in a press release statement. “Their diligent efforts in collecting evidence, conducting interviews and cooperating resulted in the suspect’s quick and safe apprehension. Domestic violence is a tragic and often unreported crime. We strongly encourage anyone who finds themselves in an abusive situation to ask for help. We are here to provide protection and connect individuals with the resources and support they need.”

Police ask anyone with information about the case to contact Detective Niedenthal at 510-293-7176.

The murder was Hayward's twelfth murder of 2024.