A Florida man, Javier Saenz, 43, has been arrested on second-degree murder charges after allegedly shooting his fiancée, 55-year-old Tonya Sidebottom, at her custom sewing shop in Jensen Beach early Sunday morning.
Authorities report that Saenz shot Sidebottom in the chest, then waited “at least” 10 minutes before calling 911 to report the incident.
The Martin County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene, where they found Sidebottom suffering from a gunshot wound but still alive. Deputies later learned from Sidebottom that Saenz delayed calling for help after the shooting.
Sheriff John Budensiek, in an interview with local ABC affiliate WPBF, explained that during the 911 call, Saenz repeatedly said, “Just send them. Just send them.” In the background, dispatchers could hear a woman screaming “Gunshot! Gunshot!” — a chilling indication of the urgency of the situation.
Saenz’s Delayed 911 Call and Incriminating Statements
Upon arrival, authorities learned from Sidebottom that she had been shot in the chest and that Saenz had waited several minutes before calling 911. The 911 call itself revealed that Saenz had implicated himself in the crime by mentioning that the victim had been shot in the chest. These details formed part of the case against him, leading to his arrest.
“She told them that Saenz waited at least 10 minutes before he even called 911,” said Sheriff Budensiek. “On our 911 call with fire rescue, fire rescue’s dispatch asked, ‘Where did you shoot the victim?’ And he said, ‘In the chest.’ … Those were his words that implicated him in this incident.”
Saenz’s Criminal History and Risk Protection Order
Saenz’s criminal history also came under scrutiny after the shooting. Budensiek confirmed that Saenz had previously been arrested for aggravated assault involving a handgun. Additionally, he had a risk protection order placed against him last year by Port St. Lucie police, which resulted in several firearms being seized.
Three of these firearms were later recovered during a search warrant executed after the shooting, including the weapon believed to have been used in the murder.
The risk protection order had expired in April 2025, according to court records, but the seizure of the firearms and Saenz’s prior history with firearms raised concerns about his ability to obtain and use weapons.
Charges and Investigation
In addition to second-degree murder, Saenz is facing charges for denying Sidebottom the ability to call 911. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to gather more evidence and piece together the events leading to Sidebottom’s tragic death.
Tonya Sidebottom was known for her custom sewing business, and the community has expressed sorrow over her untimely death. The incident has raised questions about domestic violence and the role of risk protection orders in preventing further violence.
Saenz remains in custody, and his court appearance is expected in the coming days. The investigation continues as the Martin County Sheriff’s Office works to ensure justice for Sidebottom and her family.
