Robert W. Aponte-Flores 2023 Trial Pending
On July 12 2023 at approximately 2:35pm Massachusetts State Police and Plymouth Police were dispatched to Fearing Pond inside the Myles Standish State Forest for a shooting. Upon arrival police located Robert Aponte-Flores (25) of New Bedford in a picnic area suffering from three (3) gunshot wounds. Robert was transported to Beth Israel Deaconess-Plymouth Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Investigators determined an altercation took place prior to the shooting.
On July 14 2023 an arrest warrant has been issued for John Geovanni Pires Monteiro Mendes (20). The suspect was seen by witnesses getting into an altercation with Robert Aponte-Flores in the picnic area. The victim and the alleged shooter are known to each other.
UPDATE: August 5, 2023
John Giovanni Pires Monteiro Macedo (20) was taken into custody at a Morgan Street apartment, in New Bedford, without incident.
On July 12 2023 at approximately 2:35pm Massachusetts State Police and Plymouth Police were dispatched to Fearing Pond inside the Myles Standish State Forest for a shooting. Upon arrival police located Robert Aponte-Flores (25) of New Bedford in a picnic area suffering from three (3) gunshot wounds. Robert was transported to Beth Israel Deaconess-Plymouth Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Investigators determined an altercation took place prior to the shooting.
On July 14 2023 an arrest warrant has been issued for John Geovanni Pires Monteiro Mendes (20). The suspect was seen by witnesses getting into an altercation with Robert Aponte-Flores in the picnic area. The victim and the alleged shooter are known to each other.
UPDATE: August 5, 2023
John Giovanni Pires Monteiro Macedo (20) was taken into custody at a Morgan Street apartment, in New Bedford, without incident.
Lorenzo F. Gomes 2023 Trial Pending
On July 3 2023 at approximately 12:11AM New Bedford Police responded to the area of Tallman and North Front Streets for a ShotSpotter activation. Police located spent shells at the scene, and a vehicle damaged by gunfire. There were no victims or witnesses at the scene.
A few minutes after the ShotSpotter alert, New Bedford Police received a 911 call from a man who said he was on a cell phone call with his friend, Lorenzo Gomes (20). The caller stated he was on the phone with Gomes when he heard what he believed to be gunshots. According to the caller, Gomes stated he had been hit and then became unresponsive. Police were able to ping the cellphone belonging to Lorenzo
indicating the area of the Tallman Street-North Front Street intersection.
A white Acura was located near the location, Lorenzo was discovered in the car, suffering from two (2) gunshots, one (1) to the chest and one (1) to the back. Lorenzo had a loaded, firearm on his lap, which was later determined was never fired. Police seized that weapon, and transported Lorenzo to St. Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators secured video surveillance, including from a city camera at the intersection of Tallman Street and North Front Street, which captured the shooting. The video showed a Honda Civic pulling in behind Lorenzo's vehicle. Video captured the Honda Civic drive around Lorenzo's vehicle and a gunshot was observed coming from the rear driver's side of the Honda Civic. The ballistics damage to the passenger side of Lorenzo's vehicle was consistent with that video. The Honda Civic then drive around the front of Lorenzo's vehicle and fired several more gunshots into the windshield. The Honda Civic then drove off and Lorenzo slowly traveled down the street where he was ultimately located at the intersection of Tallman Street and Belleville Avenue.
UPDATE: July 3, 2023 Suspect Arrested
As the Honda Civic was tracked from various surveillance videos throughout the city, investigators were able to see four (4) people inside the Honda Civic. Investigators were able to identify the occupants.
Sterling Robinson (24) of New Bedford was arrested in connection to the murder of Lorenzo Gomes. Sterling was arrested in Fall River by the Massachusetts State Police. Sterling is charged with accessory to murder after the fact.
Once Sterling was identified as an occupant of the vehicle, investigators were able to track Sterling through a GPS device he was wearing while on bail on an unrelated firearms charge in New Bedford. Sterling was out on $5,000 bail and was required to wear a GPS tracking device.
Sterling is seated in the front passenger's seat. Video captured Sterling opening the front passenger door and it remained open during the entirety of the shooting. It was closed after the shooting occurred and the Honda Civic drove off.
Sterling has a history of firearms and weapons-related charges. In September 2021, Sterling was arrested after police said he displayed a firearm on social media while driving through rival gang territory. When stopped, police said a search of the vehicle turned up a 9mm pistol loaded with eight (8) rounds that had been reported stolen out of New Bedford, as well as a pound of marijuana. He was arrested then on a variety of charges including firearm and ammunition possession, receiving stolen property, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and motor vehicle offenses.
In August 2018, a Sterling was arrested for disorderly conduct and interfering with a New Bedford Police investigation into a stolen moped at the Monte Park playground. He was found to be in possession of a knife longer than a city ordinance allows to be carried, and police charged him with carrying a weapon, interfering with a police officer, assault and battery on a police officer, and receiving stolen property, after they said they linked him to the stolen moped.
In December 2017, a Sterling was arrested and charged with carrying a loaded firearm, receiving stolen property over $250, possession of a firearm without a license and on a warrant when New Bedford Police He was in possession of a stolen firearm from New Hampshire.
UPDATE: July 6, 2023 Suspects Arrested
Wyllie Monteiro (25) of New Bedford was arrested in connection to the murder of Lorenzo Gomes. Wyllie was arrested in Dartmouth, and is being is charged with accessory to murder after the fact. Wyllie was out on bail awaiting trial on two (2) counts of assault and battery on a family/household member and an animal cruelty charge. Bail is now set at $50,000 on the new charge of accessory to murder-after the fact. Monteiro was also on probation from an unrelated assault and battery charge from August 2020. He was found to have violated the terms of his probation.
Xavier Luis Rodriguez (20) of New Bedford was arrested in connection to the murder of Lorenzo Gomes. Xavier arrested in New Bedford and is being is charged with murder and carrying an illegal firearm.
On July 3 2023 at approximately 12:11AM New Bedford Police responded to the area of Tallman and North Front Streets for a ShotSpotter activation. Police located spent shells at the scene, and a vehicle damaged by gunfire. There were no victims or witnesses at the scene.
A few minutes after the ShotSpotter alert, New Bedford Police received a 911 call from a man who said he was on a cell phone call with his friend, Lorenzo Gomes (20). The caller stated he was on the phone with Gomes when he heard what he believed to be gunshots. According to the caller, Gomes stated he had been hit and then became unresponsive. Police were able to ping the cellphone belonging to Lorenzo
indicating the area of the Tallman Street-North Front Street intersection.
A white Acura was located near the location, Lorenzo was discovered in the car, suffering from two (2) gunshots, one (1) to the chest and one (1) to the back. Lorenzo had a loaded, firearm on his lap, which was later determined was never fired. Police seized that weapon, and transported Lorenzo to St. Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators secured video surveillance, including from a city camera at the intersection of Tallman Street and North Front Street, which captured the shooting. The video showed a Honda Civic pulling in behind Lorenzo's vehicle. Video captured the Honda Civic drive around Lorenzo's vehicle and a gunshot was observed coming from the rear driver's side of the Honda Civic. The ballistics damage to the passenger side of Lorenzo's vehicle was consistent with that video. The Honda Civic then drive around the front of Lorenzo's vehicle and fired several more gunshots into the windshield. The Honda Civic then drove off and Lorenzo slowly traveled down the street where he was ultimately located at the intersection of Tallman Street and Belleville Avenue.
UPDATE: July 3, 2023 Suspect Arrested
As the Honda Civic was tracked from various surveillance videos throughout the city, investigators were able to see four (4) people inside the Honda Civic. Investigators were able to identify the occupants.
Sterling Robinson (24) of New Bedford was arrested in connection to the murder of Lorenzo Gomes. Sterling was arrested in Fall River by the Massachusetts State Police. Sterling is charged with accessory to murder after the fact.
Once Sterling was identified as an occupant of the vehicle, investigators were able to track Sterling through a GPS device he was wearing while on bail on an unrelated firearms charge in New Bedford. Sterling was out on $5,000 bail and was required to wear a GPS tracking device.
Sterling is seated in the front passenger's seat. Video captured Sterling opening the front passenger door and it remained open during the entirety of the shooting. It was closed after the shooting occurred and the Honda Civic drove off.
Sterling has a history of firearms and weapons-related charges. In September 2021, Sterling was arrested after police said he displayed a firearm on social media while driving through rival gang territory. When stopped, police said a search of the vehicle turned up a 9mm pistol loaded with eight (8) rounds that had been reported stolen out of New Bedford, as well as a pound of marijuana. He was arrested then on a variety of charges including firearm and ammunition possession, receiving stolen property, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and motor vehicle offenses.
In August 2018, a Sterling was arrested for disorderly conduct and interfering with a New Bedford Police investigation into a stolen moped at the Monte Park playground. He was found to be in possession of a knife longer than a city ordinance allows to be carried, and police charged him with carrying a weapon, interfering with a police officer, assault and battery on a police officer, and receiving stolen property, after they said they linked him to the stolen moped.
In December 2017, a Sterling was arrested and charged with carrying a loaded firearm, receiving stolen property over $250, possession of a firearm without a license and on a warrant when New Bedford Police He was in possession of a stolen firearm from New Hampshire.
UPDATE: July 6, 2023 Suspects Arrested
Wyllie Monteiro (25) of New Bedford was arrested in connection to the murder of Lorenzo Gomes. Wyllie was arrested in Dartmouth, and is being is charged with accessory to murder after the fact. Wyllie was out on bail awaiting trial on two (2) counts of assault and battery on a family/household member and an animal cruelty charge. Bail is now set at $50,000 on the new charge of accessory to murder-after the fact. Monteiro was also on probation from an unrelated assault and battery charge from August 2020. He was found to have violated the terms of his probation.
Xavier Luis Rodriguez (20) of New Bedford was arrested in connection to the murder of Lorenzo Gomes. Xavier arrested in New Bedford and is being is charged with murder and carrying an illegal firearm.
Derek Pires 2023 Trial Pending
On March 13, 2023, at 10:52 PM the Shot Spotter system was activated for thirteen (13) rounds in the area of Dartmouth and Dunbar Streets. New Bedford Police arrived and located a black Dodge Charger parked on the south side of Dunbar Street. Located inside the vehicle, in the driver's seat, was Derek Pires (29). Pires had been shot multiple times. Pires was transported to St Luke's Hospital, however, was pronounced dead at 1:30AM on March 14, 2023. Pires leaves behind his fiancée and three (3) children.
UPDATE: July 5, 2023 Suspect Arrested
Gianni Carter-Joyner (28), who has ties to both New Bedford and Fall River, was indicted by a Bristol County Grand Jury on charges of Murder, Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Firearm, Unlawful Transportation of a Firearm into the Commonwealth, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and two counts of Carrying an Illegal Firearm-Subsequent offense.
Gianni has a history of firearms-related charges and convictions. In March 2019, he was sentenced to serve 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 years in prison after pleading guilty to a host of firearms-related charges following an August 2017 incident in which he acted as the lookout as an unidentified shooter opened fire on two unoccupied cars near Morton Middle School in Fall River. In August 2017, Gianni was stopped by Fall River police for speeding, operating with a suspended license and was in possession of a 15-round magazine containing 10 rounds of .40-caliber ammunition, as well as a Glock .40-caliber pistol barrel. In July 2013, he was arrested in Fall River and charged with being in possession of a loaded .22-caliber Beretta long rifle.
Gianna is already in custody on related illegal firearm and drug distribution charges out of New Bedford District Court.
On March 13, 2023, at 10:52 PM the Shot Spotter system was activated for thirteen (13) rounds in the area of Dartmouth and Dunbar Streets. New Bedford Police arrived and located a black Dodge Charger parked on the south side of Dunbar Street. Located inside the vehicle, in the driver's seat, was Derek Pires (29). Pires had been shot multiple times. Pires was transported to St Luke's Hospital, however, was pronounced dead at 1:30AM on March 14, 2023. Pires leaves behind his fiancée and three (3) children.
UPDATE: July 5, 2023 Suspect Arrested
Gianni Carter-Joyner (28), who has ties to both New Bedford and Fall River, was indicted by a Bristol County Grand Jury on charges of Murder, Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Firearm, Unlawful Transportation of a Firearm into the Commonwealth, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and two counts of Carrying an Illegal Firearm-Subsequent offense.
Gianni has a history of firearms-related charges and convictions. In March 2019, he was sentenced to serve 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 years in prison after pleading guilty to a host of firearms-related charges following an August 2017 incident in which he acted as the lookout as an unidentified shooter opened fire on two unoccupied cars near Morton Middle School in Fall River. In August 2017, Gianni was stopped by Fall River police for speeding, operating with a suspended license and was in possession of a 15-round magazine containing 10 rounds of .40-caliber ammunition, as well as a Glock .40-caliber pistol barrel. In July 2013, he was arrested in Fall River and charged with being in possession of a loaded .22-caliber Beretta long rifle.
Gianna is already in custody on related illegal firearm and drug distribution charges out of New Bedford District Court.
Luis A. Miranda Jr. 2022 Trial Pending On April 29 2022 around 1:01AM Luis Miranda (36) was discovered shot multiple times inside a vehicle in front of 193 Weld Street. The shooting was captured through a ShotSpotter activation. Police and Paramedics responded and discovered Miranda sitting inside a Chrysler Sebring suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
UPDATE : May 15 2022 Suspects Arrested
Jonathan Medina Perez (41) of Fall River and Jonathan Gonsalves (33) of New Bedford have been arrested in connection to the murder of Luis Miranda. Perez is charged with murder and two counts of armed assault with intent to murder, Gonsalves is charged with accessory to murder before and after the fact.
UPDATE : May 15 2022 Suspects Arrested
Jonathan Medina Perez (41) of Fall River and Jonathan Gonsalves (33) of New Bedford have been arrested in connection to the murder of Luis Miranda. Perez is charged with murder and two counts of armed assault with intent to murder, Gonsalves is charged with accessory to murder before and after the fact.
Naurik Michel-Brown 2021 Trial Pending
On August 9 2021 at approximately 2:15 P.M. New Bedford Police responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a shooting near the intersection of Belleville Road and Ashley Boulevard.
New Bedford Police and EMS arrived and located Naurik Michel-Brown (23) suffering from several gunshot wounds laying on the sidewalk next to a vehicle occupied with his wife and their three (3) children. He was rushed to St Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Michel-Brown had stopped by the business to check on his friends vehicle that was being serviced. Witnesses stated hearing an argument between Michel-Brown and Alfonso Richards inside the business, then it moved into the parking lot, prior to shots being fired. Michel-Brown was shot three (3) times. Michel-Brown is Richard Alfonso's son-in-law.
UPDATE : August 10 2021 Suspect Arrested
Alfonso Richards (59) of New Bedford was arrested in Stafford County Virginia, by Virginia State Police, along Route I-95. He was arrested without incident. On August 12 2021 Richards appeared in New Bedford District Court on the charges of murder and assault and battery by firearm. The judge ordered him held without bail.
On August 9 2021 at approximately 2:15 P.M. New Bedford Police responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a shooting near the intersection of Belleville Road and Ashley Boulevard.
New Bedford Police and EMS arrived and located Naurik Michel-Brown (23) suffering from several gunshot wounds laying on the sidewalk next to a vehicle occupied with his wife and their three (3) children. He was rushed to St Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Michel-Brown had stopped by the business to check on his friends vehicle that was being serviced. Witnesses stated hearing an argument between Michel-Brown and Alfonso Richards inside the business, then it moved into the parking lot, prior to shots being fired. Michel-Brown was shot three (3) times. Michel-Brown is Richard Alfonso's son-in-law.
UPDATE : August 10 2021 Suspect Arrested
Alfonso Richards (59) of New Bedford was arrested in Stafford County Virginia, by Virginia State Police, along Route I-95. He was arrested without incident. On August 12 2021 Richards appeared in New Bedford District Court on the charges of murder and assault and battery by firearm. The judge ordered him held without bail.
Rayshard Normil-Jerome 2021 Trial Pending
On July 26 2021 Rayshard Normil-Jerome (18) had attended a party across the street from Clasky Common Park. Witnesses reported that Normil-Jerome was informed that a certain individual, also attending the party, didn't want him there. Normil-Jerome then left the party with a friend and went across the street into Clasky Common Park.
The witness stated shortly thereafter, six to seven individuals chased Normil-Jerome through the park, brought him to the ground and started kicking and assaulting him.
On July 27 2021 at 1:24AM a Massachusetts State Police trooper was flagged down by a woman walking near Clasky Common Park. She informed the trooper about a male laying unresponsive inside the park. The trooper located Normil-Jerome suffering from multiple stab wounds. New Bedford Police and EMS responded and transported Normil-Jerome to St Luke's Hospital, but succumbed to his injuries.
Suspects Arrested
Latrell Baskins (21) was detained by police after fleeing the scene and admitted to chasing and kicking Normil-Jerome. In addition to Baskin, police arrested a 16-year-old male, who is also being charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
UPDATE : August 6 2021
Latrell Baskins (21) appeared in court for a dangerousness hearing and was placed on $5,000 bail along with other conditions. Baskin must wear a GPS monitor; remain at home, where he lives with his mother, except for medical or court appointments; and not commit any state or federal crimes. Baskin has no prior criminal record and is not being charged with murder, but he participated in a "group beating" and "violent assault" that ultimately resulted in a person being killed.
On July 26 2021 Rayshard Normil-Jerome (18) had attended a party across the street from Clasky Common Park. Witnesses reported that Normil-Jerome was informed that a certain individual, also attending the party, didn't want him there. Normil-Jerome then left the party with a friend and went across the street into Clasky Common Park.
The witness stated shortly thereafter, six to seven individuals chased Normil-Jerome through the park, brought him to the ground and started kicking and assaulting him.
On July 27 2021 at 1:24AM a Massachusetts State Police trooper was flagged down by a woman walking near Clasky Common Park. She informed the trooper about a male laying unresponsive inside the park. The trooper located Normil-Jerome suffering from multiple stab wounds. New Bedford Police and EMS responded and transported Normil-Jerome to St Luke's Hospital, but succumbed to his injuries.
Suspects Arrested
Latrell Baskins (21) was detained by police after fleeing the scene and admitted to chasing and kicking Normil-Jerome. In addition to Baskin, police arrested a 16-year-old male, who is also being charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
UPDATE : August 6 2021
Latrell Baskins (21) appeared in court for a dangerousness hearing and was placed on $5,000 bail along with other conditions. Baskin must wear a GPS monitor; remain at home, where he lives with his mother, except for medical or court appointments; and not commit any state or federal crimes. Baskin has no prior criminal record and is not being charged with murder, but he participated in a "group beating" and "violent assault" that ultimately resulted in a person being killed.
Joseph Pauline 2021 Trial Pending
On May 14 2021 at 6:45 PM New Bedford Police responded to multiple 9-1-1- calls at the Richdale Foods store on Brock Avenue regarding a possible shooting. Police and Paramedics arrived and located Joseph Pauline (32) in the parking lot suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
UPDATE : May 18 2021 Suspects Arrested
Christopher Boyer (19) and Anthony Rosario (20) were both located in Brockton at the Super 8 Motel and transported back to New Bedford for questioning as to their role in the homicide. Boyer was subsequently charged with accessory to murder after the fact and was held on $1000 cash bail. Rosario was subsequently charged with assault and battery to collect a loan.
On June 8 2021 Malique Smith (20) was charged with murder, Carrying illegal firearm, Carrying a loaded illegal firearm in connection to the incident. Smith was located and arrested in Fall River.
On May 14 2021 at 6:45 PM New Bedford Police responded to multiple 9-1-1- calls at the Richdale Foods store on Brock Avenue regarding a possible shooting. Police and Paramedics arrived and located Joseph Pauline (32) in the parking lot suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
UPDATE : May 18 2021 Suspects Arrested
Christopher Boyer (19) and Anthony Rosario (20) were both located in Brockton at the Super 8 Motel and transported back to New Bedford for questioning as to their role in the homicide. Boyer was subsequently charged with accessory to murder after the fact and was held on $1000 cash bail. Rosario was subsequently charged with assault and battery to collect a loan.
On June 8 2021 Malique Smith (20) was charged with murder, Carrying illegal firearm, Carrying a loaded illegal firearm in connection to the incident. Smith was located and arrested in Fall River.
Ausarmaat Rahotep 2020 Trial Pending
On August 11 2020 at 9:51 PM New Bedford Police responded to the area of 139 Dartmouth Street for a possible shooting. Upon arrival New Bedford Police located the victim, Ausarmaat Rahotep (41), shot seven (7) times. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital and was dead at 10:16 PM. Rahotep, a truck driver, is from Georgia and was residing in New Bedford with his sister due to COVID-19.
On February 25 2017 Rahotep was arrested in Florida after threatening the life of President Donald Trump.
Rahotep, 37 at the time, of Central Falls, R.I., called the Columbia County Combined Communication Center and stated to the 911 operator that he was headed to Donald Trump with bombs. At the time he placed the call, Rahotep was parked on the side of an interstate I-75. When deputies arrived, a pursuit began, weaving across all northbound lanes — but never speeding.
Eventually, Rahotep pulled into an agricultural inspection station on I-75. The truck and trailer were searched by a K-9 from the Valdosta Police Department for explosives, none were found.
He was arrested for reckless driving, fleeing and attempting to elude and making threats against elected officials. he was released on March 3 2017 on $20,000 bail.
UPDATE : August 12 2020 Suspect Arrested
New Bedford Police arrested Jonovan Gonzalez (27) of New Bedford. Gonzalez is charged with murder, carrying an illegal firearm and carrying a loaded illegal firearm.
On August 11 2020 at 9:51 PM New Bedford Police responded to the area of 139 Dartmouth Street for a possible shooting. Upon arrival New Bedford Police located the victim, Ausarmaat Rahotep (41), shot seven (7) times. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital and was dead at 10:16 PM. Rahotep, a truck driver, is from Georgia and was residing in New Bedford with his sister due to COVID-19.
On February 25 2017 Rahotep was arrested in Florida after threatening the life of President Donald Trump.
Rahotep, 37 at the time, of Central Falls, R.I., called the Columbia County Combined Communication Center and stated to the 911 operator that he was headed to Donald Trump with bombs. At the time he placed the call, Rahotep was parked on the side of an interstate I-75. When deputies arrived, a pursuit began, weaving across all northbound lanes — but never speeding.
Eventually, Rahotep pulled into an agricultural inspection station on I-75. The truck and trailer were searched by a K-9 from the Valdosta Police Department for explosives, none were found.
He was arrested for reckless driving, fleeing and attempting to elude and making threats against elected officials. he was released on March 3 2017 on $20,000 bail.
UPDATE : August 12 2020 Suspect Arrested
New Bedford Police arrested Jonovan Gonzalez (27) of New Bedford. Gonzalez is charged with murder, carrying an illegal firearm and carrying a loaded illegal firearm.
Keven D. Rocha 2020 Trial Pending On July 17 2020 at approximately 4:30 A.M. The Shot Spotter System was activated in the area of Margin Street. New Bedford Police responded to a multi-family home at 17 Margin Street and located the victim, Keven Rocha (25), he had been shot four (4) times. The house was shot at an additional seven (7) times from outside.
UPDATE : July 23 2020 Suspect Arrested
On July 22 2020 Investigators obtained reliable information that Ricardo Velez-Gonzalez (33) was staying at a friends apartment on Nauset Green Way in Eastham MA. Surveillance was conducted based on the information, and on July 23 2020 Velez-Gonzalez was taken into custody without incident. Velez-Gonzalez is being held without bail pending the outcome of a dangerousness hearing as well as as a bail revocation hearing. The bail revocation request is based on several pending criminal cases against the Velez-Gonzalez from New Bedford District Court and Falmouth District Court.
UPDATE : August 6 2020 Suspect Arrested
Bruno Lopes (24) of New Bedford was arrested in connection to the death of Keven Rocha. Lopes was charged with Armed Assault in Dwelling, Carrying Firearm without a License, Carrying a Loaded Firearm without a License, Attempted Assault and Battery with a Firearm, Malicious Destruction of Property Over $1200 and Discharging Firearm Within 500 Feet of a Building.
Investigation
Bruno Lopes and Keven Rocha (the victim) were captured on video surveillance leaving Monte’s Park together and arriving on Margin Street. Both men entered the home, at which point, it is alleged that Rocha pointed a gun at the people inside. A struggle ensued and Rocha was apparently shot and killed with his own gun.
After initially leaving the home on foot, Lopes was seen on video surveillance going back to the home with another gun a few minutes later and shooting at the house from outside at least seven (7) times. The weapon used to shoot at the home was recovered by New Bedford Police.
Lopes had previously been convicted by a jury in Fall River Superior Court in May 2018 on charges of Carrying an Illegal Firearm and Attempted Assault and Battery by Discharge of a Firearm. Lopes had been sentenced to serve jail time on those two charges, However, Judge Gregg Pasquale “allowed the defendant’s motion to set aside both jury verdicts based on their contention that the defendant could not be identified as the shooter on surveillance video.” and Lopes was released from custody. In 2019 Lopes was again convicted of illegally possessing a firearm and discharging the weapon into an unoccupied vehicle.
On July 2 2020 Lopes was arrested by Providence RI Police during a night of rioting. Lopes was charged with disorderly conduct.
UPDATE : July 23 2020 Suspect Arrested
On July 22 2020 Investigators obtained reliable information that Ricardo Velez-Gonzalez (33) was staying at a friends apartment on Nauset Green Way in Eastham MA. Surveillance was conducted based on the information, and on July 23 2020 Velez-Gonzalez was taken into custody without incident. Velez-Gonzalez is being held without bail pending the outcome of a dangerousness hearing as well as as a bail revocation hearing. The bail revocation request is based on several pending criminal cases against the Velez-Gonzalez from New Bedford District Court and Falmouth District Court.
UPDATE : August 6 2020 Suspect Arrested
Bruno Lopes (24) of New Bedford was arrested in connection to the death of Keven Rocha. Lopes was charged with Armed Assault in Dwelling, Carrying Firearm without a License, Carrying a Loaded Firearm without a License, Attempted Assault and Battery with a Firearm, Malicious Destruction of Property Over $1200 and Discharging Firearm Within 500 Feet of a Building.
Investigation
Bruno Lopes and Keven Rocha (the victim) were captured on video surveillance leaving Monte’s Park together and arriving on Margin Street. Both men entered the home, at which point, it is alleged that Rocha pointed a gun at the people inside. A struggle ensued and Rocha was apparently shot and killed with his own gun.
After initially leaving the home on foot, Lopes was seen on video surveillance going back to the home with another gun a few minutes later and shooting at the house from outside at least seven (7) times. The weapon used to shoot at the home was recovered by New Bedford Police.
Lopes had previously been convicted by a jury in Fall River Superior Court in May 2018 on charges of Carrying an Illegal Firearm and Attempted Assault and Battery by Discharge of a Firearm. Lopes had been sentenced to serve jail time on those two charges, However, Judge Gregg Pasquale “allowed the defendant’s motion to set aside both jury verdicts based on their contention that the defendant could not be identified as the shooter on surveillance video.” and Lopes was released from custody. In 2019 Lopes was again convicted of illegally possessing a firearm and discharging the weapon into an unoccupied vehicle.
On July 2 2020 Lopes was arrested by Providence RI Police during a night of rioting. Lopes was charged with disorderly conduct.
Angel S. Cruz 2020 Trial Pending
On November 25 2020 Jon Zell (18) was to spend Thanksgiving with his father before being admitted to an in-patient substance abuse treatment center in Quincy on November 27 2020.
On the evening of November 25 Jon left the home in Mattapoisett after telling his father he was meeting up with a friend. Jon didn't return to the home that night of the 25th or the morning of the 26th.
In the early morning hours on November 27 Jon was discovered rummaging through his fathers bureau, claiming he was looking for his prescription medication. The father located the medication, provided to Jon and went back to bed. When he awoke later, his son was already gone from the home.
On November 27 a neighbor called the father reporting that an unusual object was on his lawn. The object was the father's gun safe. The safe was discovered open and his firearm was missing. The firearm was reported stolen to the Mattapoisett Police Department and he sent a text message to his Jon telling him the police were notified. Mattapoisett Police were able to obtain an arrest warrant for Jon charging him with larceny of a firearm, larceny from a building, and larceny over $1,200.
November 27 2020 8:30 A.M. - 90 Clark Street New Bedford
Jon Zell appeared inside the 3rd floor apartment at 90 Clark Street as an unwanted intruder. He was told to leave by the occupant, who later told police Jon had gained entry illegally during the early morning hours and was her son's former friend.
November 27 2020 10:21 A.M. - 12 LaFrance Court
At about 10:21 New Bedford Police responded to reports of shots fired. Upon arrival police found Angel Cruz (40) wounded outside of 12 LaFrance Court. The victim was transported to St Luke's Hospital and was later pronounced dead at 12:26 P.M.
Just after the initial calls reporting shots fired, a motor vehicle rollover was reported at County & Linden Streets. Alfredo Balastier (34), the sole occupant of the vehicle was found suffering from gunshot wounds and massive blood loss. Police determined he was also a victim of the shooting at 12 LaFrance Court, and was attempting to drive himself to St Luke's Hospital. He was stabilized at St Luke's Hospital and transferred to RI Hospital.
Both Cruz and Balastier were at LaFrance Court repairing a vehicle, they have no connection to Jon Zell.
November 27 2020 11:09 A.M. - Penniman & Reynolds Street
Neighbors provided police with a description of the shooting suspect, including cell phone video. At about 11:09 a.m., two (2) New Bedford officers located a suspect matching the description. The officers ordered him to show his hands. Instead, he allegedly reached into his waistband, grabbed a handgun, and started firing. As more police officers arrived, he allegedly started shooting indiscriminately in their direction. No officers were shot, and the officers did not return fire. After running out of ammunition, he dropped the weapon on the ground, put his hands on his head, and surrendered. The suspect, now in custody, was identified as Jon Zell.
Investigation
During the investigation a review of Zell's arrest record indicated he had been arrested prior at 90 Clark Street. A search was conducted and police discovered two (2) 9 mm live rounds of ammunition, which matched the brand of ammunition at the shooting scene, and a green duffle bag containing a box of 380 ammunition, ammunition which his father had reported stolen earlier in the day.
Zell is charged with with murder, Carrying an illegal firearm, Carrying a loaded illegal firearm, Discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a building, 10 counts of armed assault with intent to murder. Zell currently has charges pending for sexual assault.
In July 2019 Zell, 17 at the time, went missing from a juvenile program at Tewksbury Hospital, also in 2017 Zell, 15 at the time, walked away from a juvenile group home in Methuen.
Court Appearance November 30 2020
Zell plead not guilty and was ordered held without bail. Zell is undergoing a psychological evaluation at Bridgewater State Hospital.
On November 25 2020 Jon Zell (18) was to spend Thanksgiving with his father before being admitted to an in-patient substance abuse treatment center in Quincy on November 27 2020.
On the evening of November 25 Jon left the home in Mattapoisett after telling his father he was meeting up with a friend. Jon didn't return to the home that night of the 25th or the morning of the 26th.
In the early morning hours on November 27 Jon was discovered rummaging through his fathers bureau, claiming he was looking for his prescription medication. The father located the medication, provided to Jon and went back to bed. When he awoke later, his son was already gone from the home.
On November 27 a neighbor called the father reporting that an unusual object was on his lawn. The object was the father's gun safe. The safe was discovered open and his firearm was missing. The firearm was reported stolen to the Mattapoisett Police Department and he sent a text message to his Jon telling him the police were notified. Mattapoisett Police were able to obtain an arrest warrant for Jon charging him with larceny of a firearm, larceny from a building, and larceny over $1,200.
November 27 2020 8:30 A.M. - 90 Clark Street New Bedford
Jon Zell appeared inside the 3rd floor apartment at 90 Clark Street as an unwanted intruder. He was told to leave by the occupant, who later told police Jon had gained entry illegally during the early morning hours and was her son's former friend.
November 27 2020 10:21 A.M. - 12 LaFrance Court
At about 10:21 New Bedford Police responded to reports of shots fired. Upon arrival police found Angel Cruz (40) wounded outside of 12 LaFrance Court. The victim was transported to St Luke's Hospital and was later pronounced dead at 12:26 P.M.
Just after the initial calls reporting shots fired, a motor vehicle rollover was reported at County & Linden Streets. Alfredo Balastier (34), the sole occupant of the vehicle was found suffering from gunshot wounds and massive blood loss. Police determined he was also a victim of the shooting at 12 LaFrance Court, and was attempting to drive himself to St Luke's Hospital. He was stabilized at St Luke's Hospital and transferred to RI Hospital.
Both Cruz and Balastier were at LaFrance Court repairing a vehicle, they have no connection to Jon Zell.
November 27 2020 11:09 A.M. - Penniman & Reynolds Street
Neighbors provided police with a description of the shooting suspect, including cell phone video. At about 11:09 a.m., two (2) New Bedford officers located a suspect matching the description. The officers ordered him to show his hands. Instead, he allegedly reached into his waistband, grabbed a handgun, and started firing. As more police officers arrived, he allegedly started shooting indiscriminately in their direction. No officers were shot, and the officers did not return fire. After running out of ammunition, he dropped the weapon on the ground, put his hands on his head, and surrendered. The suspect, now in custody, was identified as Jon Zell.
Investigation
During the investigation a review of Zell's arrest record indicated he had been arrested prior at 90 Clark Street. A search was conducted and police discovered two (2) 9 mm live rounds of ammunition, which matched the brand of ammunition at the shooting scene, and a green duffle bag containing a box of 380 ammunition, ammunition which his father had reported stolen earlier in the day.
Zell is charged with with murder, Carrying an illegal firearm, Carrying a loaded illegal firearm, Discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a building, 10 counts of armed assault with intent to murder. Zell currently has charges pending for sexual assault.
In July 2019 Zell, 17 at the time, went missing from a juvenile program at Tewksbury Hospital, also in 2017 Zell, 15 at the time, walked away from a juvenile group home in Methuen.
Court Appearance November 30 2020
Zell plead not guilty and was ordered held without bail. Zell is undergoing a psychological evaluation at Bridgewater State Hospital.
Paul Collazo-Ruiz 2019 Trial Pending On October 19 2019 at approximately 7:05 pm New Bedford Police responded to the area around Tallman Street and Ashley Boulevard for reports of an apparent shooting involving two victims. Police and EMS arrived and located Paul Collazo-Ruiz (17) of New Bedford, and another victim (20) who is not being identified suffering from gunshot wounds.
Collazo-Ruiz was pronounced deceased at the scene, while the 20-year-old was rushed to Rhode Island Hospital. The surviving victim, was shot in the back and is now paralyzed.
In the days after the shooting, a memorial was created on the sidewalk which lead investigators to believe the shooting was gang related and that Collazo-Ruiz was a "probationary member" of the Latin Kings. His family has denied he's affiliated with any gangs, but did acknowledge Collazo-Ruiz has friends tied to the Latin Kings. It was later determined the a group of Latin Kings and associates were filming a rap-video not far from the murder scene. Collazo-Ruiz and the other victim were walking home from a Chinese Restaurant when they were shot from behind.
Investigators probing a September 2019 non-fatal shooting in Fall River and the October 2019 fatal shooting Paul Collazo-Ruiz obtained evidence that Ashlee Cambra (24) assisted the alleged perpetrators in both of these incidents. She was then re-arrested in 2021.
Kevin Edwards (22) of Fall River, has been indicted on charges of murder, assault and battery by discharge of a firearm, carrying an illegal firearm and unlawful possession of a large capacity feeding device.
Mauricio Pineda (25) of New Bedford, has been indicted on charges of murder, accessory to murder before the fact, assault and battery by discharge of a firearm, carrying an illegal firearm, unlawful possession of a large capacity feeding device, possession of an illegal firearm and two counts of unlawful possession of a large capacity feeding device.
UPDATE : July 15 2022 Ashlee Cambra Guilty
Ashlee Cambra (24) of Fall River, pleaded guilty to Accessory to Murder-After the Fact, Accessory to an Assault and Battery by Means of a Firearm-After the Fact, Attempted Assault and Battery by Means of a Firearm, Carrying an Illegal Firearm and Possession of an High Capacity Firearm. On July 15 2022. Cambra was sentenced to four (4) to six (6) years in state prison, with probation for an additional two years.
Collazo-Ruiz was pronounced deceased at the scene, while the 20-year-old was rushed to Rhode Island Hospital. The surviving victim, was shot in the back and is now paralyzed.
In the days after the shooting, a memorial was created on the sidewalk which lead investigators to believe the shooting was gang related and that Collazo-Ruiz was a "probationary member" of the Latin Kings. His family has denied he's affiliated with any gangs, but did acknowledge Collazo-Ruiz has friends tied to the Latin Kings. It was later determined the a group of Latin Kings and associates were filming a rap-video not far from the murder scene. Collazo-Ruiz and the other victim were walking home from a Chinese Restaurant when they were shot from behind.
Investigators probing a September 2019 non-fatal shooting in Fall River and the October 2019 fatal shooting Paul Collazo-Ruiz obtained evidence that Ashlee Cambra (24) assisted the alleged perpetrators in both of these incidents. She was then re-arrested in 2021.
Kevin Edwards (22) of Fall River, has been indicted on charges of murder, assault and battery by discharge of a firearm, carrying an illegal firearm and unlawful possession of a large capacity feeding device.
Mauricio Pineda (25) of New Bedford, has been indicted on charges of murder, accessory to murder before the fact, assault and battery by discharge of a firearm, carrying an illegal firearm, unlawful possession of a large capacity feeding device, possession of an illegal firearm and two counts of unlawful possession of a large capacity feeding device.
UPDATE : July 15 2022 Ashlee Cambra Guilty
Ashlee Cambra (24) of Fall River, pleaded guilty to Accessory to Murder-After the Fact, Accessory to an Assault and Battery by Means of a Firearm-After the Fact, Attempted Assault and Battery by Means of a Firearm, Carrying an Illegal Firearm and Possession of an High Capacity Firearm. On July 15 2022. Cambra was sentenced to four (4) to six (6) years in state prison, with probation for an additional two years.
Justin Ortiz 2016 Trial Pending
On December 27 2016 approximately 11:40 P.M. Justin Ortiz (21) was discovered in the 2nd floor hallway of 51 Tallman Street. Ortiz appeared to have been shot in the head. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital, then transferred to RI Hospital where he died on Dec 30 2016. Ortiz had previously served in the U.S. Marines for 3 1/2 years.
UPDATE : July 1 2021 Suspect Arrested
Joshua J. Lobo (21) was indicted for involuntary manslaughter and armed robbery in misleading investigators, intimidation of a witness and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute in connection with the death of Justin Ortiz. Lobo called two (2) people about Ortiz’s shooting before calling 9-1-1 from his phone. His currently awaiting trial.
On December 27 2016 approximately 11:40 P.M. Justin Ortiz (21) was discovered in the 2nd floor hallway of 51 Tallman Street. Ortiz appeared to have been shot in the head. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital, then transferred to RI Hospital where he died on Dec 30 2016. Ortiz had previously served in the U.S. Marines for 3 1/2 years.
UPDATE : July 1 2021 Suspect Arrested
Joshua J. Lobo (21) was indicted for involuntary manslaughter and armed robbery in misleading investigators, intimidation of a witness and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute in connection with the death of Justin Ortiz. Lobo called two (2) people about Ortiz’s shooting before calling 9-1-1 from his phone. His currently awaiting trial.