Infant Remains Undetermined 2023 On December 9 2023, at approximately 12:30 pm New Bedford Police Department received a 911 reporting the discovery of a deceased infant.
A woman walking with her niece on a path near the water and discovered a blanket in the bushes. The woman carefully moved the blanket and discovered a white plastic which contained the remains of the male infant. The woman was able to get the attention of two (2) men walking a dog nearby men who made the 911 call. New Bedford Police detectives determined the two (2) men and the woman weren't involved in the baby’s death.
The infant’s body was transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office, and initial DNA testing revealed it was a male that was likely deceased for one to four weeks before being discovered. The official cause of death is still pending final autopsy results.
A woman walking with her niece on a path near the water and discovered a blanket in the bushes. The woman carefully moved the blanket and discovered a white plastic which contained the remains of the male infant. The woman was able to get the attention of two (2) men walking a dog nearby men who made the 911 call. New Bedford Police detectives determined the two (2) men and the woman weren't involved in the baby’s death.
The infant’s body was transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office, and initial DNA testing revealed it was a male that was likely deceased for one to four weeks before being discovered. The official cause of death is still pending final autopsy results.
Amarito Fernandes Unsolved Murder 2023
On August 3 2023 at 11:04 p.m. New Bedford Police received a ShotSpotter activation along with several 9-1-1 calls reporting multiple gun shots in the area of 123 County Street. Several of the calls reported a male victim was in the area of 116 County Street.
Police and EMS arrived and discovered physical evidence supporting a shooting, but no victim.
A short time later, New Bedford Police were notified of a private vehicle had arrived at St. Luke's Hospital with the male victim. The victim was identified as Amarito Fernandes (27) of New Bedford. He was pronounced dead at the hospital at 11:33 p.m.
On August 3 2023 at 11:04 p.m. New Bedford Police received a ShotSpotter activation along with several 9-1-1 calls reporting multiple gun shots in the area of 123 County Street. Several of the calls reported a male victim was in the area of 116 County Street.
Police and EMS arrived and discovered physical evidence supporting a shooting, but no victim.
A short time later, New Bedford Police were notified of a private vehicle had arrived at St. Luke's Hospital with the male victim. The victim was identified as Amarito Fernandes (27) of New Bedford. He was pronounced dead at the hospital at 11:33 p.m.
Anali M. Farias Unsolved Murder 2022 On November 5 2022 at approximately 11:30PM New Bedford Police received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a shooting near 17 Bullard Street. Police were unable to locate a victim, however shortly thereafter a bullet-riddled vehicle arrived at St. Luke's Hospital. The victim, Anali Farias (16) was in the back seat. Anali was transferred to Rhode Island Hospital due to her injuries.
On November 9 2022 Anali died as a result of her injuries. She was laid to rest on November 21 2022 in Riverside Cemetery.
UPDATE: November 7 2022
A juvenile has been arrested in connection with the shooting, but is not the suspect in causing Farias’ injuries.
On November 9 2022 Anali died as a result of her injuries. She was laid to rest on November 21 2022 in Riverside Cemetery.
UPDATE: November 7 2022
A juvenile has been arrested in connection with the shooting, but is not the suspect in causing Farias’ injuries.
Kevin Stoughton Unsolved Murder 2022
On March 28 2022 1PM approximately Fairhaven Police Department contacted the New Bedford Police Department requesting a well-being check at 39 North Sixth Street based on information from the mother, a resident of Fairhaven, of Chelsea Pimental (33).
Pimental had sent text messages including a photo that morning to say that a man had died in her presence at the 39 North Sixth Street address. New Bedford Police responded and located a deceased male, identified as Kevin Stoughton (62), the resident of the apartment. Pimental had been residing at the apartment for the past four (4) days. Pimental who was homeless and had taken a bus from Boston to New Bedford. An ex-boyfriend of Pimentel, who was also friendly with the Stoughton, had persuaded Stoughton to take her temporarily.
Pimental was interviewed by police and initially not charged with a crime.
The medical examiner determined Stoughton’s larynx had been crushed, he suffered four broken ribs and there were abrasions on his neck and face. His death was ruled a homicide.
UPDATE: March 29 2022
Chelsea Pimental was arrested and charged with murder, assault and battery on a household member, and assault and battery. She is being held without bail. Pimental is disabled due to history of mental illness. On November 15, 2022 Chelsea Pimental has been deemed incompetent to stand trial at this time and has been civilly committed.
On March 28 2022 1PM approximately Fairhaven Police Department contacted the New Bedford Police Department requesting a well-being check at 39 North Sixth Street based on information from the mother, a resident of Fairhaven, of Chelsea Pimental (33).
Pimental had sent text messages including a photo that morning to say that a man had died in her presence at the 39 North Sixth Street address. New Bedford Police responded and located a deceased male, identified as Kevin Stoughton (62), the resident of the apartment. Pimental had been residing at the apartment for the past four (4) days. Pimental who was homeless and had taken a bus from Boston to New Bedford. An ex-boyfriend of Pimentel, who was also friendly with the Stoughton, had persuaded Stoughton to take her temporarily.
Pimental was interviewed by police and initially not charged with a crime.
The medical examiner determined Stoughton’s larynx had been crushed, he suffered four broken ribs and there were abrasions on his neck and face. His death was ruled a homicide.
UPDATE: March 29 2022
Chelsea Pimental was arrested and charged with murder, assault and battery on a household member, and assault and battery. She is being held without bail. Pimental is disabled due to history of mental illness. On November 15, 2022 Chelsea Pimental has been deemed incompetent to stand trial at this time and has been civilly committed.
Eric J. Carlos Unsolved Murder 2022
On March 21 2022 New Bedford Police received a 911 call at 6:06 PM regarding a male shooting victim outside of 117 Hillman Street. When police and paramedics arrived on scene, they located the victim on the porch of that address, suffering from a single gunshot wound.
The victim, later identified as Eric Jose Carlos (35) ,of Dartmouth, was rushed to St. Luke’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly before 7 PM.
On March 21 2022 New Bedford Police received a 911 call at 6:06 PM regarding a male shooting victim outside of 117 Hillman Street. When police and paramedics arrived on scene, they located the victim on the porch of that address, suffering from a single gunshot wound.
The victim, later identified as Eric Jose Carlos (35) ,of Dartmouth, was rushed to St. Luke’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly before 7 PM.
Marcus A. Roberts Unsolved Murder 2017
On August 17 2017 at approximately 2:44 A.M. New Bedford Police responded to a Shot Spotter gunshot detection system activation in the area of 1669 Acushnet Avenue. Upon arrival Marcus Roberts (33) was discovered laying in the street suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Roberts was transported to St Luke's Hospital, then transferred to RI Hospital where he later died. A white vehicle was seen fleeing the scene after the shooting
Stephen Bodden & Fabio Tavares 2017 Solved 2023
On October 10, 2017 Stephen Bodden (27) and Fabio Tavares (28) were shot and killed inside a moving vehicle that subsequently crashed into a parked vehicle. Carmelo Kercado (40) was the backseat passenger in the Honda Accord driven by Stephen Bodden. Riding in the front passenger seat was Fabio Tavares.
Prior to their murder, Bodden and Tavares met up with Kercado at the Whiskey Lounge between 11 p.m. and midnight on October 9, 2017, and they all left together shortly after 1 a.m. on October 10. They got into the Honda Accord and traveled north on Acushnet Avenue and then west on Central Avenue, when the victims were shot and the Accord crashed into a parked vehicle.
Bodden was shot six (6) times, including three (3) shots to his head. Tavares was shot five (5) times, with shots in his back, in his thigh and in his hand.
It was revealed in court that Kercado was a person of interest in the killing of Marcus Roberts. The motive for killing Bodden and Tavares was to keep Bodden quiet about the murder of Marcus Roberts. Stephen Bodden had posted a video on social media claiming to seek “retribution” towards whoever murdered his friend and “mentor” Marcus Roberts back in August.
The day after the double murder, Kercado fled the state. The Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section and the U.S. Marshals Service in Boston developed intelligence that Kercado was in Concord, North Carolina, and it was there that he was taken into custody on the afternoon of December 19, 2017.
UPDATE: June 20 2023
Carmelo Kercado, Jr. (40) was convicted on two counts of first degree murder in connection to the murders of Stephen Bodden and Fabio Tavares and illegal firearm charges. He was immediately sentenced to serve consecutive life sentences in prison with no possibility of parole. Kercado was never charged in connection to the murder of Marcus Roberts.
On August 17 2017 at approximately 2:44 A.M. New Bedford Police responded to a Shot Spotter gunshot detection system activation in the area of 1669 Acushnet Avenue. Upon arrival Marcus Roberts (33) was discovered laying in the street suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Roberts was transported to St Luke's Hospital, then transferred to RI Hospital where he later died. A white vehicle was seen fleeing the scene after the shooting
Stephen Bodden & Fabio Tavares 2017 Solved 2023
On October 10, 2017 Stephen Bodden (27) and Fabio Tavares (28) were shot and killed inside a moving vehicle that subsequently crashed into a parked vehicle. Carmelo Kercado (40) was the backseat passenger in the Honda Accord driven by Stephen Bodden. Riding in the front passenger seat was Fabio Tavares.
Prior to their murder, Bodden and Tavares met up with Kercado at the Whiskey Lounge between 11 p.m. and midnight on October 9, 2017, and they all left together shortly after 1 a.m. on October 10. They got into the Honda Accord and traveled north on Acushnet Avenue and then west on Central Avenue, when the victims were shot and the Accord crashed into a parked vehicle.
Bodden was shot six (6) times, including three (3) shots to his head. Tavares was shot five (5) times, with shots in his back, in his thigh and in his hand.
It was revealed in court that Kercado was a person of interest in the killing of Marcus Roberts. The motive for killing Bodden and Tavares was to keep Bodden quiet about the murder of Marcus Roberts. Stephen Bodden had posted a video on social media claiming to seek “retribution” towards whoever murdered his friend and “mentor” Marcus Roberts back in August.
The day after the double murder, Kercado fled the state. The Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section and the U.S. Marshals Service in Boston developed intelligence that Kercado was in Concord, North Carolina, and it was there that he was taken into custody on the afternoon of December 19, 2017.
UPDATE: June 20 2023
Carmelo Kercado, Jr. (40) was convicted on two counts of first degree murder in connection to the murders of Stephen Bodden and Fabio Tavares and illegal firearm charges. He was immediately sentenced to serve consecutive life sentences in prison with no possibility of parole. Kercado was never charged in connection to the murder of Marcus Roberts.
Patrick Alves Unsolved Murder 2014
On January 16 2014 at 1:14 AM New Bedford Police received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting shots in the area of 153 Myrtle Street. When police arrived they located Patrick Alves (23) laying on the sidewalk suffering from several gun shot wounds. He was transported to St. Luke's Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. His cellphone and ID were missing.
Suspects Arrested
Nicholas Gonzalez was charged with accessory after the fact to murder and witness intimidation in connection with the slaying of Patrick Alves. Investigators alleged Gonzalez had stolen the cellphone belonging to Patrick. Gonzalez then denied any knowledge of the phone, but was later discovered in his toilet destroyed. Also charged was Gerron Harper of Brockton with being an accessory after the fact. Prosecutors claimed Harper is accused of disposing of a cell phone that was used to "set up" Patrick.
As to the status of the charges connected to Alves murder, unable to locate
On January 16 2014 at 1:14 AM New Bedford Police received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting shots in the area of 153 Myrtle Street. When police arrived they located Patrick Alves (23) laying on the sidewalk suffering from several gun shot wounds. He was transported to St. Luke's Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. His cellphone and ID were missing.
Suspects Arrested
Nicholas Gonzalez was charged with accessory after the fact to murder and witness intimidation in connection with the slaying of Patrick Alves. Investigators alleged Gonzalez had stolen the cellphone belonging to Patrick. Gonzalez then denied any knowledge of the phone, but was later discovered in his toilet destroyed. Also charged was Gerron Harper of Brockton with being an accessory after the fact. Prosecutors claimed Harper is accused of disposing of a cell phone that was used to "set up" Patrick.
As to the status of the charges connected to Alves murder, unable to locate
Edson Ramos Unsolved Murder 2014
On August 17, 2014 approximately 2:25 AM, Edson A. Ramos (32) was discovered in a grassy area on Route 18 just north of the Interstate 195 overpass. The individual made the discovery while walking informed New Bedford Police that twenty (20) minutes prior to the discovery he heard three (3) gunshots.
Investigators determined Ramos was last seen alive at 1 AM on the morning of his murder walking alone along Acushnet Avenue towards the location where he was murdered. It is very possible he was walking home towards his apartment on Purchase Street.
There are no witnesses, no motive.
On August 17, 2014 approximately 2:25 AM, Edson A. Ramos (32) was discovered in a grassy area on Route 18 just north of the Interstate 195 overpass. The individual made the discovery while walking informed New Bedford Police that twenty (20) minutes prior to the discovery he heard three (3) gunshots.
Investigators determined Ramos was last seen alive at 1 AM on the morning of his murder walking alone along Acushnet Avenue towards the location where he was murdered. It is very possible he was walking home towards his apartment on Purchase Street.
There are no witnesses, no motive.
Scott Souza Unsolved Murder 2013
On July 19 2013 approximately 3:07 A.M. New Bedford Police received several 911 calls regarding a male being shot at 25 Austin Street. Police and EMS arrived and located Scott Souza (29) unconscious and suffering from several gunshot wounds. He was transported to St. Luke's Hospital where were was pronounced dead.
Souza was known to law enforcement and had a pending drug and firearm case against him in Fall River Superior Court. The charges stem from a raid on March 7 , 2011 at his former residence on Pleasant Street in New Bedford, where police found a .40-caliber, large-capacity firearm, 17 rounds of .40-caliber ammunition, 53 Percocet tablets, four Valium tablets, more than 14 grams of cocaine and a pound of marijuana, according to records in New Bedford District Court.
On July 19 2013 approximately 3:07 A.M. New Bedford Police received several 911 calls regarding a male being shot at 25 Austin Street. Police and EMS arrived and located Scott Souza (29) unconscious and suffering from several gunshot wounds. He was transported to St. Luke's Hospital where were was pronounced dead.
Souza was known to law enforcement and had a pending drug and firearm case against him in Fall River Superior Court. The charges stem from a raid on March 7 , 2011 at his former residence on Pleasant Street in New Bedford, where police found a .40-caliber, large-capacity firearm, 17 rounds of .40-caliber ammunition, 53 Percocet tablets, four Valium tablets, more than 14 grams of cocaine and a pound of marijuana, according to records in New Bedford District Court.
Timothy Cowart Unsolved Murder 2011
On January 28 2011 around 12:05 p.m. New Bedford Police received 911 calls reporting gunshots in the area of 42 Thompson Street. Police arrived and discovered Timothy Cowart (29) laying on the sidewalk suffering from a fatal gunshot wound to the face.
Witnesses reported seeing Cowart and the unknown suspect walking together, then saw Cowart shot and the suspect run off. The suspect was never identified.
Although not relevant to his murder, Cowart was a registered sex offender. He was convicted in 2000 of indecent assault and battery on a person aged 14 or older. He was also arrested in June 2010 for allegedly threatening a woman with a firearm.
On January 28 2011 around 12:05 p.m. New Bedford Police received 911 calls reporting gunshots in the area of 42 Thompson Street. Police arrived and discovered Timothy Cowart (29) laying on the sidewalk suffering from a fatal gunshot wound to the face.
Witnesses reported seeing Cowart and the unknown suspect walking together, then saw Cowart shot and the suspect run off. The suspect was never identified.
Although not relevant to his murder, Cowart was a registered sex offender. He was convicted in 2000 of indecent assault and battery on a person aged 14 or older. He was also arrested in June 2010 for allegedly threatening a woman with a firearm.
Tracey Monteiro Unsolved Murder 2011
On November 27 2011 ShotSpotter activated indicating several shots were fired in the area at 5:30 a.m. The first officer arrived at the scene in 23 seconds, minutes before the dispatchers received 911 calls from the neighborhood.
Tracy Monteiro (32) was found lying on the pavement in his driveway at 120 Locust Street. Monteiro’s girlfriend of 2 1/2 years, said they were at a baby shower at a function hall in the North End Saturday night and went separate ways about 11:30 p.m. She headed home and Mr. Monteiro was planning to return to the shower and later go out with friends. She said the last time she saw him was when he walked her to her car and kissed her good-bye. She said she woke up to the sound of gunshots about 5 a.m. and saw him lying on the ground. The motive of the murder is unknown. He had just recently moved to New Bedford from Brockton.
On November 27 2011 ShotSpotter activated indicating several shots were fired in the area at 5:30 a.m. The first officer arrived at the scene in 23 seconds, minutes before the dispatchers received 911 calls from the neighborhood.
Tracy Monteiro (32) was found lying on the pavement in his driveway at 120 Locust Street. Monteiro’s girlfriend of 2 1/2 years, said they were at a baby shower at a function hall in the North End Saturday night and went separate ways about 11:30 p.m. She headed home and Mr. Monteiro was planning to return to the shower and later go out with friends. She said the last time she saw him was when he walked her to her car and kissed her good-bye. She said she woke up to the sound of gunshots about 5 a.m. and saw him lying on the ground. The motive of the murder is unknown. He had just recently moved to New Bedford from Brockton.
Ricardo Encarnacion Unsolved Murder 2010
On October 30 2010 around 4:30 A.M. Ricardo Encarnacion (28) was shot several times while on the porch of his home at 325 North Front Street. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Court records show that Ricardo had a heated argument just three months prior with another man at the same intersection. The argument at some point turned physical with the two having to be separated. Ricardo was arrested, the male was never identified. Ricardo had a minor criminal record which contained arrests for domestic assault and motor vehicle violations, and a couple of drug arrests from five years prior. During the arrest for the argument, he admitted to selling cocaine.
Investigators have identified potential witnesses, but they are uncooperative and haven't provided any information.
On October 30 2010 around 4:30 A.M. Ricardo Encarnacion (28) was shot several times while on the porch of his home at 325 North Front Street. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Court records show that Ricardo had a heated argument just three months prior with another man at the same intersection. The argument at some point turned physical with the two having to be separated. Ricardo was arrested, the male was never identified. Ricardo had a minor criminal record which contained arrests for domestic assault and motor vehicle violations, and a couple of drug arrests from five years prior. During the arrest for the argument, he admitted to selling cocaine.
Investigators have identified potential witnesses, but they are uncooperative and haven't provided any information.
Paul Elias Unsolved Murder 2009
On June 14 2009 at 1:45 AM a fight breaks out inside the Regal Beagle Sports Bar on Acushnet Avenue.
During the brawl, a husband and wife were both cut with a knife. New Bedford Police responded to the scene and recovered a silver-bladed knife with a brown handle underneath the pool table, near where the fight began. There were blood stains on the pool table and a large amount of blood on the floor. The couple was later treated and released at St. Luke’s Hospital.
The brawl then moved outside where Paul Elias (44) was standing. Witnesses said Elias and two men were still outside when the other two suspects ran up from behind punched and pushed them. Elias fell and struck his head on the pavement. He was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
Jason A. Miguel (24), of New Bedford was identified as the suspect who cut the couple. The other three (3) suspect’s have not been identified, though several witnesses have given descriptions to police.
Miguel was not charged with the homicide of Paul Elias. According to court records, Miguel was released from state prison in November 2008 after serving a three-year sentence for drug trafficking and firearm charges. He has other previous convictions on assault and weapons violations. Miguel told detectives he did not remember being at the Regal Beagle because he was drunk from having spent the day drinking at the Day of Portugal Feast. Who exactly attacked and punched Paul Elias remains unknown.
On June 14 2009 at 1:45 AM a fight breaks out inside the Regal Beagle Sports Bar on Acushnet Avenue.
During the brawl, a husband and wife were both cut with a knife. New Bedford Police responded to the scene and recovered a silver-bladed knife with a brown handle underneath the pool table, near where the fight began. There were blood stains on the pool table and a large amount of blood on the floor. The couple was later treated and released at St. Luke’s Hospital.
The brawl then moved outside where Paul Elias (44) was standing. Witnesses said Elias and two men were still outside when the other two suspects ran up from behind punched and pushed them. Elias fell and struck his head on the pavement. He was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
Jason A. Miguel (24), of New Bedford was identified as the suspect who cut the couple. The other three (3) suspect’s have not been identified, though several witnesses have given descriptions to police.
Miguel was not charged with the homicide of Paul Elias. According to court records, Miguel was released from state prison in November 2008 after serving a three-year sentence for drug trafficking and firearm charges. He has other previous convictions on assault and weapons violations. Miguel told detectives he did not remember being at the Regal Beagle because he was drunk from having spent the day drinking at the Day of Portugal Feast. Who exactly attacked and punched Paul Elias remains unknown.
Albon Wilson Unsolved Murder 2007
On September 30 2007 around 7:15 P.M. Albon Wilson (24), a resident of Crapo Street, was found shot to death at the intersection of Thompson and Bonney Streets. A blood trail showed where he collapsed in the middle of Thompson Street, between Crapo and Bonney streets. He was shot in his neck and back, as well as in both arms, with penetration into his chest.
Court records indicate Mr. Wilson had a lengthy criminal record, including being incarcerated at the Bristol County House of Corrections in 2007 for four months after being arrested on charges of distributing marijuana and cocaine in New Bedford. He was released from jail on August 29 2007 after posting $2,500 cash bail.
Mr. Wilson had two pending drug distribution cases in New Bedford Superior Court. He also had 22 arrests dating back to 2002 on charges that included assault, robbery and weapons offenses. In 2006, police executed a search warrant at his Crapo Street residence and confiscated a .380 semi-automatic handgun, court records said. A police report from February 23 2007 stated Mr. Wilson was “affiliated” with Southside Gangster’s Disciples, a street gang in the South End. However, New Bedford police lately publicly stated there was no evidence supporting the allegation that Mr. Wilson was ever a gang-member. Mr. Wilson wasn't a New Bedford native, he moved to the city from Springfield about eight (8) years prior and attended New Bedford High School. He did not have any family in the area and was unemployed at the time he was killed. He left behind a fiancee and three (3) children. It's believed that Mr Wilson knew his murderers, was attempting to get away, and the assailants wanted to make sure he was dead.
Suspect Arrested
Michael V Feliciano (17) was arrested in October 2007 for the murder of Mr. Wilson. The District Attorney’s Office announced within days after the murder that Mr. Feliciano was a suspect based on witness statements. Feliciano then allegedly fled to Connecticut. New Bedford Police, Massachusetts State Police and the U.S. Marshals investigating the case executed a search warrant at a Connecticut residence. Prosecutors said Mr. Feliciano had fled the house hours before the investigators arrived.
On October 19 2007 Mr. Feliciano was arrested in Sturbridge Mass. by a Massachusetts State Trooper conducting a motor vehicle stop involving a vehicle Mr. Feliciano's girlfriend was driving. Mr. Feliciano was found hiding in the rear compartment of the hatchback of the vehicle.
Trial Begins May 20 2009
Mr. Feliciano plead not guilty to the murder charge at the initial court appearance in 2007. In May 2009 opening arguments began in the trial of Mr. Feliciano. Assistant District Attorney John P. Stapleton claimed three young women, who claimed to be witnesses of the crime, will testify Mr. Feliciano shot Mr. Wilson.
Acquitted June 3 2009
The jury deliberated for nine (9) hours before acquitting Michael Feliciano of the September 2007 fatal shooting of Albon Wilson.
The prosecution’s case was centered on the testimony of three (3) young women who implicated Mr. Feliciano in Mr. Wilson’s murder. It was determined during the initial police investigation none of the witnesses identified Mr. Feliciano as the shooter. It was later exposed at trial one of the witness's statements was induced by constant police questioning, the other two (2) witnesses admitted to falsely accusing Mr. Feliciano to deflect attention from themselves because they were under suspicion by police.
On September 30 2007 around 7:15 P.M. Albon Wilson (24), a resident of Crapo Street, was found shot to death at the intersection of Thompson and Bonney Streets. A blood trail showed where he collapsed in the middle of Thompson Street, between Crapo and Bonney streets. He was shot in his neck and back, as well as in both arms, with penetration into his chest.
Court records indicate Mr. Wilson had a lengthy criminal record, including being incarcerated at the Bristol County House of Corrections in 2007 for four months after being arrested on charges of distributing marijuana and cocaine in New Bedford. He was released from jail on August 29 2007 after posting $2,500 cash bail.
Mr. Wilson had two pending drug distribution cases in New Bedford Superior Court. He also had 22 arrests dating back to 2002 on charges that included assault, robbery and weapons offenses. In 2006, police executed a search warrant at his Crapo Street residence and confiscated a .380 semi-automatic handgun, court records said. A police report from February 23 2007 stated Mr. Wilson was “affiliated” with Southside Gangster’s Disciples, a street gang in the South End. However, New Bedford police lately publicly stated there was no evidence supporting the allegation that Mr. Wilson was ever a gang-member. Mr. Wilson wasn't a New Bedford native, he moved to the city from Springfield about eight (8) years prior and attended New Bedford High School. He did not have any family in the area and was unemployed at the time he was killed. He left behind a fiancee and three (3) children. It's believed that Mr Wilson knew his murderers, was attempting to get away, and the assailants wanted to make sure he was dead.
Suspect Arrested
Michael V Feliciano (17) was arrested in October 2007 for the murder of Mr. Wilson. The District Attorney’s Office announced within days after the murder that Mr. Feliciano was a suspect based on witness statements. Feliciano then allegedly fled to Connecticut. New Bedford Police, Massachusetts State Police and the U.S. Marshals investigating the case executed a search warrant at a Connecticut residence. Prosecutors said Mr. Feliciano had fled the house hours before the investigators arrived.
On October 19 2007 Mr. Feliciano was arrested in Sturbridge Mass. by a Massachusetts State Trooper conducting a motor vehicle stop involving a vehicle Mr. Feliciano's girlfriend was driving. Mr. Feliciano was found hiding in the rear compartment of the hatchback of the vehicle.
Trial Begins May 20 2009
Mr. Feliciano plead not guilty to the murder charge at the initial court appearance in 2007. In May 2009 opening arguments began in the trial of Mr. Feliciano. Assistant District Attorney John P. Stapleton claimed three young women, who claimed to be witnesses of the crime, will testify Mr. Feliciano shot Mr. Wilson.
Acquitted June 3 2009
The jury deliberated for nine (9) hours before acquitting Michael Feliciano of the September 2007 fatal shooting of Albon Wilson.
The prosecution’s case was centered on the testimony of three (3) young women who implicated Mr. Feliciano in Mr. Wilson’s murder. It was determined during the initial police investigation none of the witnesses identified Mr. Feliciano as the shooter. It was later exposed at trial one of the witness's statements was induced by constant police questioning, the other two (2) witnesses admitted to falsely accusing Mr. Feliciano to deflect attention from themselves because they were under suspicion by police.
Susanna M. Soares Unsolved Murder 2005
In 2001 New Bedford narcotics detectives disrupted a drug delivery service run out of the Regency Towers an apartment John D. Sylvia Jr. and Susanna Soares shared. Officers raided the home finding cocaine, marijuana and a bedroom safe containing $42,870. Prosecutors later dismissed a single drug conspiracy charge against Susanna. The cocaine distribution charges lodged against John Sylvia were dropped after he completed a period of probation.
In September 2004 her-then boyfriend Mark H. Verdejo (28) was shot in the chest, but survived.
On August 12 2005 Mark along with their daughter (3) were wounded in another shooting. Mark H. Verdejo died in July 2022 in Puerto Rico
On September 6 2005 at 3:47 A.M. New Bedford Police were dispatched to 71 Sixth street from 9-1-1 call reporting gun shots. Upon arrival police located Susanna Soares (30), who appeared to have been shot and killed in her bedroom. Soares was discovered laying in her bed and appeared to have been shot five (5) including once in the head. Her live-in boyfriend, John D. Sylvia (30) as well as her three (3) children, ages 1,8, and 10 were home at the time.
Sylvia explained to police that two (2) masked men barged into the apartment demanding money. During the encounter the assailants aimed a firearm at Sylvia and fired but missed. Sylvia then explained the men turned to Soares and fired five (5) times, killing her. The masked men then fled the apartment in an unknown direction.
Sylvia was arrested and charged with the murder. Police claimed Sylvia is the one who killed Soares and not two (2) unknown masked men. Police also claimed that Sylvia altered the crime scene, provided false statements to police investigators with the intention to mislead the investigation. Robbery didn't appear to be the motive since there was a significant amount of cash on the nightstand, in plain view, that was never taken.
Investigators did suggest a different motive pointing the troubled relationship between Soares and Sylvia. There were allegations that Sylvia was involved with another - if not several - other women. Three weeks after Soares's death, Sylvia moved to Georgia with one of the women he was suspected of having a relationship with.
Soares worked for an insurance company and just nine (9) days prior to the murder, she purchased a $535,000 life insurance policy, listing Sylvia as the benefactor and not her three (3) children.
On June 28 2008, Sylvia was acquitted. After being acquitted, he visited Susanna's grave, had dinner with relatives and friends, then went out for drinks at the Cape Verdean Band Club. While at the club he exchanged words with a patron who called him a murderer. Authorities said the male patron, came up behind Mr. Sylvia and struck him three times in the back of the neck with a pool cue. Mr. Sylvia allegedly followed his attacker outside the bar. A witness told police she saw the men arguing in the street, then saw Mr. Sylvia punch the patron. Mr. Sylvia was arrested on a warrant charging him with aggravated assault and battery. Disposition on the assault case couldn't be found.
In 2001 New Bedford narcotics detectives disrupted a drug delivery service run out of the Regency Towers an apartment John D. Sylvia Jr. and Susanna Soares shared. Officers raided the home finding cocaine, marijuana and a bedroom safe containing $42,870. Prosecutors later dismissed a single drug conspiracy charge against Susanna. The cocaine distribution charges lodged against John Sylvia were dropped after he completed a period of probation.
In September 2004 her-then boyfriend Mark H. Verdejo (28) was shot in the chest, but survived.
On August 12 2005 Mark along with their daughter (3) were wounded in another shooting. Mark H. Verdejo died in July 2022 in Puerto Rico
On September 6 2005 at 3:47 A.M. New Bedford Police were dispatched to 71 Sixth street from 9-1-1 call reporting gun shots. Upon arrival police located Susanna Soares (30), who appeared to have been shot and killed in her bedroom. Soares was discovered laying in her bed and appeared to have been shot five (5) including once in the head. Her live-in boyfriend, John D. Sylvia (30) as well as her three (3) children, ages 1,8, and 10 were home at the time.
Sylvia explained to police that two (2) masked men barged into the apartment demanding money. During the encounter the assailants aimed a firearm at Sylvia and fired but missed. Sylvia then explained the men turned to Soares and fired five (5) times, killing her. The masked men then fled the apartment in an unknown direction.
Sylvia was arrested and charged with the murder. Police claimed Sylvia is the one who killed Soares and not two (2) unknown masked men. Police also claimed that Sylvia altered the crime scene, provided false statements to police investigators with the intention to mislead the investigation. Robbery didn't appear to be the motive since there was a significant amount of cash on the nightstand, in plain view, that was never taken.
Investigators did suggest a different motive pointing the troubled relationship between Soares and Sylvia. There were allegations that Sylvia was involved with another - if not several - other women. Three weeks after Soares's death, Sylvia moved to Georgia with one of the women he was suspected of having a relationship with.
Soares worked for an insurance company and just nine (9) days prior to the murder, she purchased a $535,000 life insurance policy, listing Sylvia as the benefactor and not her three (3) children.
On June 28 2008, Sylvia was acquitted. After being acquitted, he visited Susanna's grave, had dinner with relatives and friends, then went out for drinks at the Cape Verdean Band Club. While at the club he exchanged words with a patron who called him a murderer. Authorities said the male patron, came up behind Mr. Sylvia and struck him three times in the back of the neck with a pool cue. Mr. Sylvia allegedly followed his attacker outside the bar. A witness told police she saw the men arguing in the street, then saw Mr. Sylvia punch the patron. Mr. Sylvia was arrested on a warrant charging him with aggravated assault and battery. Disposition on the assault case couldn't be found.
Dana Heywood 2005 Solved 2010
On July 4 2005 Dana Heywood (31) was shot fifteen (15) times and killed in Monte Park. At the scene police recovered a blue baseball cap and some bullet shell casings. DNA testing was performed on the baseball cap, the DNA profile indicated DNA from John C. Burgos and William Payne and none from the victim.
The shell casings found at the Heywood murder scene were compared to a shell casing found three months later in a vehicle being driven by William Payne. Analysis of the casings determined the type of weapon, but the weapon has never been located.
John Burgos & Justin Barry-Henderson 2006 Solved
On May 21 2006 John C Burgos and Justin Barry-Henderson were targets in a shooting in front of 218 Union Street. Justin Barry-Henderson (20) was shot ten (10) times and died, Burgos was shot twice and survived. David DePina was taken into custody at the scene. DePina plead guilty to manslaughter, Assault & Battery with Dangerous Weapon and Unlawful Carrying Firearm in exchange for his plea. He was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Out of fear for his life and his family, DePina refused to identify his companion who was also involved the the Barry-Henderson murder. DePina was a known Monte Park Gang member and was involved in several shootings. In June 2002 he was wounded in a drive-by shooting on Wing Street, In January 2006 he was shot again after leaving a club.
Bernadette DePina Unsolved Murder 2006
Four (4) days later, on May 25 2006 David DePina's mother, Bernadette DePina (49) was murdered inside her Ash Street home, touching off more speculation of gang retaliation.
William Payne 2008 Unsolved Murder 2008
On February 3 2008 approximately 2 A.M. William Payne (22) was shot to death as he sat in the passenger seat of a vehicle at Purchase and Potomska streets. Payne was killed when multiple shots were fired into the vehicle and a second man was wounded. Police did not identify the second victim, who was seated in the driver’s seat. The second victim fled the vehicle and collapsed outside 54 Acushnet Avenue. He was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital and flown by medical helicopter to a Boston hospital with non-life-threatening wounds.
Ironically, Payne spoke about the fragility of life is at a memorial service on April 2 2006 for James Gaouette, who was a victim of gun violence.
Jailhouse Confession 2008
In April 2008, Rico Almeida told authorities he had information on multiple homicides, leading investigators to release him later that year with a recording device and instructions to record other gang members talking about the murders. However, the witness never recorded any conversations and took off. Police arrested him a month later, and returned him to jail, where he was placed in a cell with John Burgos, who was locked up for a probation violation.
In February 2009, The District Attorney's Office received a letter from Rico Almeida, In this letter, Almeida claimed that Burgos had admitted to being one of the participants in the murder of Dana Haywood on July 4, 2005. Almeida claimed Burgos divulged the "how they did it, where and when". In the letter Almeida indicated that he would arrange for Burgos to repeat this admission and offered to wear a concealed recording device.
In response to the Almeida letter, The District Attorney's office submitted an affidavit to a Superior Court judge and obtained a search warrant authorizing the electronic recording of the conversations between Almeida and Burgos. Almeida, who was known to law enforcement, was previously questioned in regard to the unsolved murder of William Payne on February 3, 2008. At the time of the Payne's murder, Almeida claimed that he had information about Payne's murder and disclosed specific details. Almeida agreed to testify as part of a plea agreement where he received an 18-month jail sentence for pleading guilty to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon stemming from murder of William Payne. He admitted to laying in ambush and shooting William Payne multiple times, wounding him, but not fatally. The witness said he did not intend to murder the victim, though he had promised a fellow gang member that he would kill him.
On March 2, 2009 Almeida, now wearing a concealed wire, engaged Burgos in a conversation. During this hour-long conversation Burgos admitted to killing Dana Haywood along with William Payne. Burgos admitted that he and Payne went to the Monte Park area to kill someone from the area, and that Dana Haywood was the first such person they saw and consequently was murdered in retaliation for the murder of Cecil Lopes III.
Trial & Conviction
At the Burgos trial in connection the Dana Haywood murder, Almeida was vigorously cross-examined by the defendant's counsel. Almeida admitted, among other things, that he had misrepresented some of the facts in his February 14, 2009 letter to the District Attorney, particularly the fact that the defendant had told him details about the victim's murder prior to the jail cell recording. He also admitted to lying to a grand jury in a prior case. Almeida agreed to testify as part of an agreement with prosecutors in which he pleaded guilty to a charge of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in connection with a 2008 shooting in New Bedford’s West End and received an 18-month jail sentence.
John Burgos was convicted of 1st degree murder of Dana Heywood four (4) years after Heywood's death. Burgos was never charged in connection to the Cecil Lopes III murder.
Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Ruling 2014
On November 21 2014 the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled the court ordered warrant allowing the concealed recording of the confession of Burgos was invalid. The court indicated the warrant was given in error, since the law for recording devices at the time only were direct at organized crime activities.
In 2016 Burgos was given a new trial, where he plead guilty to 2nd degree murder and was sentenced to 15-17 years in prison.
On July 4 2005 Dana Heywood (31) was shot fifteen (15) times and killed in Monte Park. At the scene police recovered a blue baseball cap and some bullet shell casings. DNA testing was performed on the baseball cap, the DNA profile indicated DNA from John C. Burgos and William Payne and none from the victim.
The shell casings found at the Heywood murder scene were compared to a shell casing found three months later in a vehicle being driven by William Payne. Analysis of the casings determined the type of weapon, but the weapon has never been located.
John Burgos & Justin Barry-Henderson 2006 Solved
On May 21 2006 John C Burgos and Justin Barry-Henderson were targets in a shooting in front of 218 Union Street. Justin Barry-Henderson (20) was shot ten (10) times and died, Burgos was shot twice and survived. David DePina was taken into custody at the scene. DePina plead guilty to manslaughter, Assault & Battery with Dangerous Weapon and Unlawful Carrying Firearm in exchange for his plea. He was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Out of fear for his life and his family, DePina refused to identify his companion who was also involved the the Barry-Henderson murder. DePina was a known Monte Park Gang member and was involved in several shootings. In June 2002 he was wounded in a drive-by shooting on Wing Street, In January 2006 he was shot again after leaving a club.
Bernadette DePina Unsolved Murder 2006
Four (4) days later, on May 25 2006 David DePina's mother, Bernadette DePina (49) was murdered inside her Ash Street home, touching off more speculation of gang retaliation.
William Payne 2008 Unsolved Murder 2008
On February 3 2008 approximately 2 A.M. William Payne (22) was shot to death as he sat in the passenger seat of a vehicle at Purchase and Potomska streets. Payne was killed when multiple shots were fired into the vehicle and a second man was wounded. Police did not identify the second victim, who was seated in the driver’s seat. The second victim fled the vehicle and collapsed outside 54 Acushnet Avenue. He was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital and flown by medical helicopter to a Boston hospital with non-life-threatening wounds.
Ironically, Payne spoke about the fragility of life is at a memorial service on April 2 2006 for James Gaouette, who was a victim of gun violence.
Jailhouse Confession 2008
In April 2008, Rico Almeida told authorities he had information on multiple homicides, leading investigators to release him later that year with a recording device and instructions to record other gang members talking about the murders. However, the witness never recorded any conversations and took off. Police arrested him a month later, and returned him to jail, where he was placed in a cell with John Burgos, who was locked up for a probation violation.
In February 2009, The District Attorney's Office received a letter from Rico Almeida, In this letter, Almeida claimed that Burgos had admitted to being one of the participants in the murder of Dana Haywood on July 4, 2005. Almeida claimed Burgos divulged the "how they did it, where and when". In the letter Almeida indicated that he would arrange for Burgos to repeat this admission and offered to wear a concealed recording device.
In response to the Almeida letter, The District Attorney's office submitted an affidavit to a Superior Court judge and obtained a search warrant authorizing the electronic recording of the conversations between Almeida and Burgos. Almeida, who was known to law enforcement, was previously questioned in regard to the unsolved murder of William Payne on February 3, 2008. At the time of the Payne's murder, Almeida claimed that he had information about Payne's murder and disclosed specific details. Almeida agreed to testify as part of a plea agreement where he received an 18-month jail sentence for pleading guilty to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon stemming from murder of William Payne. He admitted to laying in ambush and shooting William Payne multiple times, wounding him, but not fatally. The witness said he did not intend to murder the victim, though he had promised a fellow gang member that he would kill him.
On March 2, 2009 Almeida, now wearing a concealed wire, engaged Burgos in a conversation. During this hour-long conversation Burgos admitted to killing Dana Haywood along with William Payne. Burgos admitted that he and Payne went to the Monte Park area to kill someone from the area, and that Dana Haywood was the first such person they saw and consequently was murdered in retaliation for the murder of Cecil Lopes III.
Trial & Conviction
At the Burgos trial in connection the Dana Haywood murder, Almeida was vigorously cross-examined by the defendant's counsel. Almeida admitted, among other things, that he had misrepresented some of the facts in his February 14, 2009 letter to the District Attorney, particularly the fact that the defendant had told him details about the victim's murder prior to the jail cell recording. He also admitted to lying to a grand jury in a prior case. Almeida agreed to testify as part of an agreement with prosecutors in which he pleaded guilty to a charge of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in connection with a 2008 shooting in New Bedford’s West End and received an 18-month jail sentence.
John Burgos was convicted of 1st degree murder of Dana Heywood four (4) years after Heywood's death. Burgos was never charged in connection to the Cecil Lopes III murder.
Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Ruling 2014
On November 21 2014 the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled the court ordered warrant allowing the concealed recording of the confession of Burgos was invalid. The court indicated the warrant was given in error, since the law for recording devices at the time only were direct at organized crime activities.
In 2016 Burgos was given a new trial, where he plead guilty to 2nd degree murder and was sentenced to 15-17 years in prison.
Raymond Andrade Unsolved Murder 2004
On January 25 2004 approximately 6:18 P.M. New Bedford Police received several 911 calls reporting shots fired in the area of Griffin Court. Upon arrival police located Raymond Andrade (28) lying in the street. Andrade appeared to have been shot several times in the head and was deceased.
On January 25 2004 approximately 6:18 P.M. New Bedford Police received several 911 calls reporting shots fired in the area of Griffin Court. Upon arrival police located Raymond Andrade (28) lying in the street. Andrade appeared to have been shot several times in the head and was deceased.
Robert Greene Jr. Unsolved Murder 2004
On April 24 2004 Robert Green Jr. () was shot on the front porch of his mother's home at 111 Smith Street. Investigators determined gunshots were exchanged and a vehicle was seen fleeing the area. Ballistics evidence showed that two (2) shots had been fired at Greene. Shell casings were recovered from a third gun, which investigators said were fired at the man who shot Greene. Hours after Greene's murder, Multiple shots were fired at a house that belonged to an individual who Greene's brother, Reggie Greene suspected of being involved in his brother's murder.
Antonio J. Semedo 2006 Solved 2010
On June 18 2006 at approximately 3:15 A.M. Antonio Semedo (35) was found shot to death inside his vehicle on the off ramp from Route 18 North.
In May 2010, The District Attorney's office announced charges against two (2) men have been brought in connection to the June 2006 murder of Antonio Semedo. Reggie Greene (28), brother of 2004 murder victim Robert Greene Jr., was charged with murder and accessory to murder before the fact. Greene was later convicted of Manslaughter for his role in Semedo's murder and was sentenced to 9-10 years in prison.
Terrell Bapiste (24) was indicted on 1st degree murder. Baptiste is currently serving a 15 year federal prison sentence not connected to the Semedo murder.
Greene and Baptiste, affiliated with the United Front gang, had left a house party on June 26 2006. They drove into the South End when Greene received a telephone call regarding the location of one of the gunmen in his brother’s murder. Greene and his friends reportedly drove to that location and saw Semedo’s vehicle. They followed the car onto Route 18 and tried to verify that the operator was the gang member they were targeting, Baptiste, seated in the passenger seat, fired several rounds through the window, striking Semedo causing his vehicle to crash.
Semedo was the father of a young child and brother of a New Bedford police officer, was not and never has been gang-affiliated. He was killed as a result of a mistaken identification.
On April 24 2004 Robert Green Jr. () was shot on the front porch of his mother's home at 111 Smith Street. Investigators determined gunshots were exchanged and a vehicle was seen fleeing the area. Ballistics evidence showed that two (2) shots had been fired at Greene. Shell casings were recovered from a third gun, which investigators said were fired at the man who shot Greene. Hours after Greene's murder, Multiple shots were fired at a house that belonged to an individual who Greene's brother, Reggie Greene suspected of being involved in his brother's murder.
Antonio J. Semedo 2006 Solved 2010
On June 18 2006 at approximately 3:15 A.M. Antonio Semedo (35) was found shot to death inside his vehicle on the off ramp from Route 18 North.
In May 2010, The District Attorney's office announced charges against two (2) men have been brought in connection to the June 2006 murder of Antonio Semedo. Reggie Greene (28), brother of 2004 murder victim Robert Greene Jr., was charged with murder and accessory to murder before the fact. Greene was later convicted of Manslaughter for his role in Semedo's murder and was sentenced to 9-10 years in prison.
Terrell Bapiste (24) was indicted on 1st degree murder. Baptiste is currently serving a 15 year federal prison sentence not connected to the Semedo murder.
Greene and Baptiste, affiliated with the United Front gang, had left a house party on June 26 2006. They drove into the South End when Greene received a telephone call regarding the location of one of the gunmen in his brother’s murder. Greene and his friends reportedly drove to that location and saw Semedo’s vehicle. They followed the car onto Route 18 and tried to verify that the operator was the gang member they were targeting, Baptiste, seated in the passenger seat, fired several rounds through the window, striking Semedo causing his vehicle to crash.
Semedo was the father of a young child and brother of a New Bedford police officer, was not and never has been gang-affiliated. He was killed as a result of a mistaken identification.
Clinton Dunston Unsolved Murder 2004 On October 5 2004 at approximately 5:30 P.M. Clinton Dunston (23) was shot while sitting in parked vehicle outside 5 Morgan Terrace. The gunmen walked up to the vehicle and fired at least five shots at Clinton, striking him in the head.. He was transported to RI Hospital where he later died.
The murder of Clinton Dunston took place outside of the home of Ryan and Aaron Adams. Investigators were uncertain about the shooters’ motives but it appears he was mistaken as of the Adams brothers. The Adam brothers had connections to a string of gang-related violence
In 2003, Westport Police were ticketing vehicles and issued a ticket for a vehicle registered Mr. Dunston’s girlfriend. Inside the vehicle was a handgun lying on the back-seat floor. A further search revealed a bottle of Inositol powder, which can be used to dilute cocaine, along with a digital scale and plastic bags. Dunston was arrested days later on gun possession and witness intimidation charges.
Aaron Adams
Adams had served time for illegally carrying a firearm, has already been shot twice in 2004. Adams’ criminal record dates back to 2000, when he was carrying a loaded 9mm handgun and selling drugs. He was prosecuted for a witness intimidation case involving community activist, but was acquitted by a Superior Court jury in November 2005. Adams has also been connected to several incidents of gang violence. Law enforcement identified his older brother, Walter Adams, as a member of the Monte Park gang.
The murder of Clinton Dunston took place outside of the home of Ryan and Aaron Adams. Investigators were uncertain about the shooters’ motives but it appears he was mistaken as of the Adams brothers. The Adam brothers had connections to a string of gang-related violence
In 2003, Westport Police were ticketing vehicles and issued a ticket for a vehicle registered Mr. Dunston’s girlfriend. Inside the vehicle was a handgun lying on the back-seat floor. A further search revealed a bottle of Inositol powder, which can be used to dilute cocaine, along with a digital scale and plastic bags. Dunston was arrested days later on gun possession and witness intimidation charges.
Aaron Adams
Adams had served time for illegally carrying a firearm, has already been shot twice in 2004. Adams’ criminal record dates back to 2000, when he was carrying a loaded 9mm handgun and selling drugs. He was prosecuted for a witness intimidation case involving community activist, but was acquitted by a Superior Court jury in November 2005. Adams has also been connected to several incidents of gang violence. Law enforcement identified his older brother, Walter Adams, as a member of the Monte Park gang.
Cecil Lopes III Unsolved Murder 2004 On October 31 2004 approximately 8:25 P.M. Cecil Lopes (18) was visiting friends in the United Front Housing project. He left his grandmothers Ash Street apartment and walked toward a crowd of young people standing on Chancery Street, just a short distance from Kempton Street. He briefly chatted with a man on a bike, then shots rang out from a passing vehicle. A total of three (3) shots were fired, one of the three hits Lopes in the head killing him instantly.
On July 5, 2005 Dana Heywood (31) was shot and killed in retaliation for the murder of Cecil Lopes III. John C. Burgos admitted to the retaliation murder in a 2009 recorded jail cell conversation. During the recorded conversation Burgos admitted that he along with William Payne (who Burgos murdered February 3, 2008) went to the Monte Park area to kill someone from the area, that Dana Heywood was the first such person they saw. Dana Heywood has no involvement or any connection to the murder of Cecil Lopes III.
John Burgos was convicted of 1st degree murder of Dana Heywood and has never charged in connection to the murder of Cecil Lopes III. In 2016 Burgos was given a new trial, where he plead guilty to 2nd degree murder and was sentenced to 15-17 years in prison.
On July 5, 2005 Dana Heywood (31) was shot and killed in retaliation for the murder of Cecil Lopes III. John C. Burgos admitted to the retaliation murder in a 2009 recorded jail cell conversation. During the recorded conversation Burgos admitted that he along with William Payne (who Burgos murdered February 3, 2008) went to the Monte Park area to kill someone from the area, that Dana Heywood was the first such person they saw. Dana Heywood has no involvement or any connection to the murder of Cecil Lopes III.
John Burgos was convicted of 1st degree murder of Dana Heywood and has never charged in connection to the murder of Cecil Lopes III. In 2016 Burgos was given a new trial, where he plead guilty to 2nd degree murder and was sentenced to 15-17 years in prison.
- Alvis Dexter James Unsolved Murder 2003
James moved to New Bedford about a year prior from Easton MA leaves behind his wife Kelly and two sons. He was laid to rest in Robinson Road Cemetery in Mercer County Kentucky.
Investigation Summary
During the critical early hours of the investigation police were unaware the shooting actually took place inside the club. According to several witnesses, after James was shot inside the bar, the bar manager, Javier Morales, called his staff to assist him in removing James from inside the bar, dumping his body on the sidewalk outside, attempting to lead police to believe the shooting occurred outside the establishment. Morales and his associates then cleaned up the blood. Javier allegedly yelled at the club's patrons to tell police the shooting took place outside. Investigators then obtained the video surveillance from inside the bar, which confirmed the witness statements. Morales was charged with felony accessory-to-murder charges after admitting to investigators he used a piece of tinfoil to pick up the single bullet casing from the gun used then discarded it. Police have never recovered that crucial piece of evidence and the gunman has never been arrested.
Javier Morales
Morales is an ex-convict and was involved in some of the city’s most notorious drug cases. Morales at one point served a 10- to 12-year sentence in Cedar Junction state prison. In 1989 he was arrested for selling cocaine and heroin, in 1990 while jailed for that arrest Morales was indicted with 16 others in a drug ring uncovered by a wiretap at the Kai Hiti Chinese Restaurant on MacArthur Drive. It was reported this drug ring sold heroin cocaine and marijuana brokered machine gun sales and had connections to Chinatown in Boston drug networks in New York and Mafia figures in Providence. Morales was in state prison from 1990 to May 2000.
Leonard A. Silviera Unsolved Murder 2003
On July 11 2003 around 5:30 AM the house at 18 Homer Street burst into flames. New Bedford Fire Department responded and discovered Leonard Silviera (86) deceased in the second-floor apartment. The autopsy determined Silviera had been struck with a blunt force object before the fire had started. The case was ruled a homicide.
Investigation Summary
Mr. Silveira a decorated combat veteran and retired math teacher owned the building and more than a dozen others in the city. Mr. Silveira took destitute people under his wing throughout his life including a man and a woman who police wanted to question just hours after firefighters brought the two-alarm blaze under control.
The man later identified as Christopher Vigers (24) was a known heroin addict and drank heavily according to the younger man’s family. He had just ended a complicated relationship with Mr. Silveira however he frequently returned to Mr. Silveira’s residence seeking financial assistance.
In a statement to investigators, Vigers claimed on July 10 2003 at 10:45 PM he left a house party at his mother's residence with the Silveira. He stated they both left in a taxi, and he escorted Silveira to his Homer Street apartment, then walked 1.5 miles north to a bar in the downtown area of the city. Vigers was the last person to see Silveira alive.
Vigers told investigators he walked back to his mother's residence on Bullard Street after leaving the downtown bar. However, that conflicted with statements provided by his brother's girlfriend who was in the same residence. She stated she never saw Vigers in the mother's residence at all that morning. Vigers's mother also provided a statement that she saw her son in her home at 5:45 AM on the couch smoking a cigarette.
Two (2) other witnesses also provided statement that they saw Vigers on Homer Street on the morning of the murder. They claimed they saw Vigers thrown an unknown object on the front lawn around the corner from the Homer Street house. Police recovered a wristwatch that later was identified as belonging to Silveira.
Based on the investigation, Vigers was indicted in 2005 on charges of Murder, Assault & Battery with Dangerous Weapon and Arson. While in jail waiting for trial, his cellmate came forward and told investigators that Vigers admitted twice in 2006 to killing Silveira. The cellmate claimed Vigers told him that he struck Silveira with a hammer nine (9) times but make the mistake of not breaking a window to make it appear as a robbery. During trial investigators acknowledged a hammer and an ax were recovered inside the home, but there was not enough DNA to obtain a proper analysis.
July 26 2007 Trial Outcome
After a week-long trial, and the jury deliberating for 16 hours, Christoper Vigers was acquitted of all charges.
February 21 2016 Bentley Street House
On February 21 2016 at 6:45 PM New Bedford Police and Fire responded to a reported house fire at 28 Bentley Street. There were no injuries but the families were displaced. Fire investigators determined the fire started in the basement and was intentionally set.
Police and Fire investigators, after interviewing witnesses, learned that the suspect was in the area earlier playing street football with youths. An argument ensued and he left the area only to return later asking about the whereabouts of the youths. Several witnesses saw him going into the rear of 28 Bentley Street and then was seen running from the house, just before the fire was noticed.
The description of this suspect was broadcasted and then at 9:30 PM police located him, identified as Christopher Vigers (36), on Sawyer Street. Vigers was taken into custody and charged with Breaking and Entering and Arson.
On July 11 2003 around 5:30 AM the house at 18 Homer Street burst into flames. New Bedford Fire Department responded and discovered Leonard Silviera (86) deceased in the second-floor apartment. The autopsy determined Silviera had been struck with a blunt force object before the fire had started. The case was ruled a homicide.
Investigation Summary
Mr. Silveira a decorated combat veteran and retired math teacher owned the building and more than a dozen others in the city. Mr. Silveira took destitute people under his wing throughout his life including a man and a woman who police wanted to question just hours after firefighters brought the two-alarm blaze under control.
The man later identified as Christopher Vigers (24) was a known heroin addict and drank heavily according to the younger man’s family. He had just ended a complicated relationship with Mr. Silveira however he frequently returned to Mr. Silveira’s residence seeking financial assistance.
In a statement to investigators, Vigers claimed on July 10 2003 at 10:45 PM he left a house party at his mother's residence with the Silveira. He stated they both left in a taxi, and he escorted Silveira to his Homer Street apartment, then walked 1.5 miles north to a bar in the downtown area of the city. Vigers was the last person to see Silveira alive.
Vigers told investigators he walked back to his mother's residence on Bullard Street after leaving the downtown bar. However, that conflicted with statements provided by his brother's girlfriend who was in the same residence. She stated she never saw Vigers in the mother's residence at all that morning. Vigers's mother also provided a statement that she saw her son in her home at 5:45 AM on the couch smoking a cigarette.
Two (2) other witnesses also provided statement that they saw Vigers on Homer Street on the morning of the murder. They claimed they saw Vigers thrown an unknown object on the front lawn around the corner from the Homer Street house. Police recovered a wristwatch that later was identified as belonging to Silveira.
Based on the investigation, Vigers was indicted in 2005 on charges of Murder, Assault & Battery with Dangerous Weapon and Arson. While in jail waiting for trial, his cellmate came forward and told investigators that Vigers admitted twice in 2006 to killing Silveira. The cellmate claimed Vigers told him that he struck Silveira with a hammer nine (9) times but make the mistake of not breaking a window to make it appear as a robbery. During trial investigators acknowledged a hammer and an ax were recovered inside the home, but there was not enough DNA to obtain a proper analysis.
July 26 2007 Trial Outcome
After a week-long trial, and the jury deliberating for 16 hours, Christoper Vigers was acquitted of all charges.
February 21 2016 Bentley Street House
On February 21 2016 at 6:45 PM New Bedford Police and Fire responded to a reported house fire at 28 Bentley Street. There were no injuries but the families were displaced. Fire investigators determined the fire started in the basement and was intentionally set.
Police and Fire investigators, after interviewing witnesses, learned that the suspect was in the area earlier playing street football with youths. An argument ensued and he left the area only to return later asking about the whereabouts of the youths. Several witnesses saw him going into the rear of 28 Bentley Street and then was seen running from the house, just before the fire was noticed.
The description of this suspect was broadcasted and then at 9:30 PM police located him, identified as Christopher Vigers (36), on Sawyer Street. Vigers was taken into custody and charged with Breaking and Entering and Arson.
Ronald Brooks Unsolved Murder 2003
On July 8 2003 around 10:30 P.M. Ronald Brooks (24) was shot and killed on a crowded lawn by a drive-by shooter on Navajo Court. Several shots were fired from a small gray sedan that was driving through the Housing Complex and sped away after the shooting. Many believe Brooks wasn't the intended target, however with his history of entanglements of law enforcement, and being a target of a drug investigation, perhaps he was targeted.
On February 2, 2000 Brooks was a suspect in the discharge of a sawed-off shotgun through the door of a first-floor apartment on Apollo Drive. The morning before the shooting, the resident of the apartment reported to police that Brooks and a second unknown suspect drove to the apartment in a black SUV and inquired where they could buy marijuana. The resident reported he directed the men to a third man in Satellite Village.
Around 2 A.M. the resident of the Apollo Drive apartment reported to police that Brooks returned to the apartment with another unidentified male and were screaming about being "set-up". Brooks then exited the vehicle carrying shotgun and fired a burst of pellets through the apartment door, then fled. Within minutes a vehicle matching the description was located and stopped on Acushnet Avenue. The victims of the shooting identified both occupants.
In 2002, Brooks had moved to 73 Jenkins Street and become the “target” of an investigation run by the New Bedford Police Department. Investigators obtained a search warrant for Brook's apartment and his red 1993 Dodge Intrepid. Police located the car on November 21, 2002 and conducted a motor vehicle stop at Dunbar and Hemlock streets. A search of the vehicle turned up several bags of cocaine and an electrical stun gun.
On July 8 2003 around 10:30 P.M. Ronald Brooks (24) was shot and killed on a crowded lawn by a drive-by shooter on Navajo Court. Several shots were fired from a small gray sedan that was driving through the Housing Complex and sped away after the shooting. Many believe Brooks wasn't the intended target, however with his history of entanglements of law enforcement, and being a target of a drug investigation, perhaps he was targeted.
On February 2, 2000 Brooks was a suspect in the discharge of a sawed-off shotgun through the door of a first-floor apartment on Apollo Drive. The morning before the shooting, the resident of the apartment reported to police that Brooks and a second unknown suspect drove to the apartment in a black SUV and inquired where they could buy marijuana. The resident reported he directed the men to a third man in Satellite Village.
Around 2 A.M. the resident of the Apollo Drive apartment reported to police that Brooks returned to the apartment with another unidentified male and were screaming about being "set-up". Brooks then exited the vehicle carrying shotgun and fired a burst of pellets through the apartment door, then fled. Within minutes a vehicle matching the description was located and stopped on Acushnet Avenue. The victims of the shooting identified both occupants.
In 2002, Brooks had moved to 73 Jenkins Street and become the “target” of an investigation run by the New Bedford Police Department. Investigators obtained a search warrant for Brook's apartment and his red 1993 Dodge Intrepid. Police located the car on November 21, 2002 and conducted a motor vehicle stop at Dunbar and Hemlock streets. A search of the vehicle turned up several bags of cocaine and an electrical stun gun.
Clifford Barrymore Unsolved Murder 2001
On March 26 2001 at approximately 1:03 A.M. Clifford Barrymore (26) was shot and killed inside an apartment rented by his girlfriend, Jacquelyn M. Pedranti (26) at the Willows Apartments. Witnesses reported hearing the sound of feet shuffling then three (3) shots, followed by another two (2) shots.
New Bedford Police arrived and located Barrymore in the living with several gunshot wounds to the head.
During the investigation of the crime scene, Police recovered 22 grams of cocaine and seven (7) bags of marijuana.
Pedranti was charged with possession of cocaine and marijuana with intent to distribute. But the district attorney’s office later decided not to prosecute drug charges against her.
Investigators at first believed its possible drugs could be a motive for the killing. That theory was dismissed since the cocaine and marijuana had not been taken from the scene. Clifford Barrymore was a resident of the Bronx, N.Y., and was a frequent guest.
On March 26 2001 at approximately 1:03 A.M. Clifford Barrymore (26) was shot and killed inside an apartment rented by his girlfriend, Jacquelyn M. Pedranti (26) at the Willows Apartments. Witnesses reported hearing the sound of feet shuffling then three (3) shots, followed by another two (2) shots.
New Bedford Police arrived and located Barrymore in the living with several gunshot wounds to the head.
During the investigation of the crime scene, Police recovered 22 grams of cocaine and seven (7) bags of marijuana.
Pedranti was charged with possession of cocaine and marijuana with intent to distribute. But the district attorney’s office later decided not to prosecute drug charges against her.
Investigators at first believed its possible drugs could be a motive for the killing. That theory was dismissed since the cocaine and marijuana had not been taken from the scene. Clifford Barrymore was a resident of the Bronx, N.Y., and was a frequent guest.
Maria Mendes Unsolved Murder 2001
On October 17 2001 just after 5 P.M. the body of Maria Mendes (41) was discovered in her 1st-floor apartment at 71 Chancery Street. Family members hadn't heard from Maria in several days and arrived at her home to check on her. Maria was found face down in her bathtub, she appeared to have severe facial injuries. The District Attorney's Office determined it was a homicide based on evidence at the scene. The exact cause of death wasn't released. Very little information could be found about this case.
On October 17 2001 just after 5 P.M. the body of Maria Mendes (41) was discovered in her 1st-floor apartment at 71 Chancery Street. Family members hadn't heard from Maria in several days and arrived at her home to check on her. Maria was found face down in her bathtub, she appeared to have severe facial injuries. The District Attorney's Office determined it was a homicide based on evidence at the scene. The exact cause of death wasn't released. Very little information could be found about this case.
Marcus J. Cruz Unsolved Murder 2001
On September 9, 2001 at approximately 2:30 AM, Marcus Cruz (17) was shot at the corner of Chancery and Kempton Streets. Cruz was located on the sidewalk behind a van and was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Autopsy results determined he was shot in the chest.
Cruz was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and not the intended target. His friend, Ashley Silva, who was later murdered in 2005 was the intended target. Shell casing to a .38-caliber were recovered.
Jonathan Butler Unsolved Murder 2005
In 2002 Butler was sentenced to serve three (3) years in prison for illegally carrying a .38-caliber handgun. In September 2003 at his sentencing hearing, prosecutors stated the ballistic analysis confirmed the .38 caliber handgun was the same weapon fatally killed Marcus Cruz in 2001. Butler was never charged in the murder of Marcus Cruz in 2001.
On January 29 2005 approximately 9:30 P.M. New Bedford Police responded to reported shots fired on Smith Street near Westlawn Housing project. Upon arrival they located Jonathan Butler (22). Witnesses reported an individual approached Butler while he was removing something from the trunk of a vehicle and shot him. After being shot, Butler was driven by private vehicle to St. Luke's Hospital. Shortly before Butler was killed an anonymous man called a family member of the Marcus Cruz warning that retaliation was imminent. Butler had been a target previously, he was shot and wounded in November 2001, just two months after Marcus Cruz was killed.
Ashley Silva Unsolved Murder 2005
In 2002 Ashley Silva was arrested for a shooting incident on Acushnet Avenue. At that time, he was charged with two (2) counts of attempted murder, two (2) counts for firearm violations and four (4) counts of assault & battery with intent to murder.
Marcel DePina (20) and Ashley Silva allegedly fired on a Honda Civic in a parking on Acushnet Avenue. Silva and a group of friends had fought with the men in the Civic earlier in the evening.
Depina was arrested that night he agreed to cooperate with police. He led detectives to a car where he and Silva hide their guns.
Police recovered two (2) Smith & Wesson revolvers and 12 small bags of marijuana. Silva was arrested later that night.
Silva pleaded guilty to an assortment of assault and firearms charges in connection with the attack. He was sentenced to 3 years in state prison. After spending three (3) years in prison Silva was released from state prison on July 3, 2005.
On July 8, 2005 at 2 A.M. Ashley Silva (21) was found stabbed at the intersection of Ruth and Viall Streets in New Bedford. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital by his friends, where he later died. It remains unclear whether Mr. Silva's murder was the result of a fight as his family believes or revenge for his involvement in the gun violence in the West End neighborhood where he once hung out.
New Bedford police arrested Ashley Silva at least three (3) times for violating a no-trespass order barring him from the same housing complex court records show. United Front managers issued the no-trespass order because they feared Mr. Silva who lived in the South End was dealing drugs.
His murder came the same night New Bedford police were called to quell a flurry of violence along Ruth Street a corridor that prosecutors say is claimed by the violent Ruth Street Boys gang. Around 2 a.m. a 911 call reported gunfire near a crowded house party at 115 Ruth St. The assailant supposedly fled in a black car. New Bedford Police later recovered several spent shell casings near the scene. No one was reported injured.
However friends told his family a different version of events. They claim Mr. Silva was attending the party with a group of friends when one man in his entourage quarreled with another man not in their group. The two factions totaling about 20 people walked away from the party to settle the dispute. A melee erupted when one of Mr. Silva's friends swung at an adversary armed with a knife.
Mr. Silva was wounded his attacker pulled a gun and fired several shots to cover his escape.
New Bedford Police were called to the hospital to assist with a large crowd, that had gathered outside and noticed an argument near West and Taber streets. A loaded handgun was recovered at the abandoned street corner.
On September 9, 2001 at approximately 2:30 AM, Marcus Cruz (17) was shot at the corner of Chancery and Kempton Streets. Cruz was located on the sidewalk behind a van and was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Autopsy results determined he was shot in the chest.
Cruz was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and not the intended target. His friend, Ashley Silva, who was later murdered in 2005 was the intended target. Shell casing to a .38-caliber were recovered.
Jonathan Butler Unsolved Murder 2005
In 2002 Butler was sentenced to serve three (3) years in prison for illegally carrying a .38-caliber handgun. In September 2003 at his sentencing hearing, prosecutors stated the ballistic analysis confirmed the .38 caliber handgun was the same weapon fatally killed Marcus Cruz in 2001. Butler was never charged in the murder of Marcus Cruz in 2001.
On January 29 2005 approximately 9:30 P.M. New Bedford Police responded to reported shots fired on Smith Street near Westlawn Housing project. Upon arrival they located Jonathan Butler (22). Witnesses reported an individual approached Butler while he was removing something from the trunk of a vehicle and shot him. After being shot, Butler was driven by private vehicle to St. Luke's Hospital. Shortly before Butler was killed an anonymous man called a family member of the Marcus Cruz warning that retaliation was imminent. Butler had been a target previously, he was shot and wounded in November 2001, just two months after Marcus Cruz was killed.
Ashley Silva Unsolved Murder 2005
In 2002 Ashley Silva was arrested for a shooting incident on Acushnet Avenue. At that time, he was charged with two (2) counts of attempted murder, two (2) counts for firearm violations and four (4) counts of assault & battery with intent to murder.
Marcel DePina (20) and Ashley Silva allegedly fired on a Honda Civic in a parking on Acushnet Avenue. Silva and a group of friends had fought with the men in the Civic earlier in the evening.
Depina was arrested that night he agreed to cooperate with police. He led detectives to a car where he and Silva hide their guns.
Police recovered two (2) Smith & Wesson revolvers and 12 small bags of marijuana. Silva was arrested later that night.
Silva pleaded guilty to an assortment of assault and firearms charges in connection with the attack. He was sentenced to 3 years in state prison. After spending three (3) years in prison Silva was released from state prison on July 3, 2005.
On July 8, 2005 at 2 A.M. Ashley Silva (21) was found stabbed at the intersection of Ruth and Viall Streets in New Bedford. He was transported to St Luke's Hospital by his friends, where he later died. It remains unclear whether Mr. Silva's murder was the result of a fight as his family believes or revenge for his involvement in the gun violence in the West End neighborhood where he once hung out.
New Bedford police arrested Ashley Silva at least three (3) times for violating a no-trespass order barring him from the same housing complex court records show. United Front managers issued the no-trespass order because they feared Mr. Silva who lived in the South End was dealing drugs.
His murder came the same night New Bedford police were called to quell a flurry of violence along Ruth Street a corridor that prosecutors say is claimed by the violent Ruth Street Boys gang. Around 2 a.m. a 911 call reported gunfire near a crowded house party at 115 Ruth St. The assailant supposedly fled in a black car. New Bedford Police later recovered several spent shell casings near the scene. No one was reported injured.
However friends told his family a different version of events. They claim Mr. Silva was attending the party with a group of friends when one man in his entourage quarreled with another man not in their group. The two factions totaling about 20 people walked away from the party to settle the dispute. A melee erupted when one of Mr. Silva's friends swung at an adversary armed with a knife.
Mr. Silva was wounded his attacker pulled a gun and fired several shots to cover his escape.
New Bedford Police were called to the hospital to assist with a large crowd, that had gathered outside and noticed an argument near West and Taber streets. A loaded handgun was recovered at the abandoned street corner.
Ivandro Correia Unsolved Murder 2001
On December 5 2001 Ivandro Correia (17) was a passenger in a vehicle along with Justin Cromwell, Charles & Dwyer Crowder, all three (3) of these men were reputed Monte Park gang members.
On the night of the shooting, they pulled into a south-end gas station shortly before the shooting. At the time, the men noticed they were being followed and carefully watched by Ruth Street gang members. They exited the gas station, drove onto Cove Street, then onto Ruth Street where the following vehicle, being operated by Chad Dargis, pulled along their vehicle and shots were fired.
Correia was struck in the chest, Cromwell and Dwyer Crowder were injured. They drove to St Luke's Hospital where Correia died from his wounds. Chad Dargis was never charged with any crimes relating to this incident.
In 2002 an informant provided information that accused Brandon Gonsalves (24), also a Ruth Street Gang member, was the trigger person that night Ivandro Correia was killed. Gonsalves denied any involvement in the shooting or in any gang activity. Gonsalves was never charged with any crimes related to this incident.
On June 24 2002 Ryan Aguiar (24), a known Ruth Street gang member, was shot and killed while sitting in a vehicle on Ruth Street. Witnesses reported two (2) men ran up and shot him multiple times.
Two (2) men were later arrested and charged in connection to Aguiar's murder, Attim Almeida (27) and Manuel Silva (19). The investigation determined Aguiar's murder was retaliation for the killing of Ivandro Correia. It was learned Manuel Silva and Ivandro Correia are brothers. Manuel Silva was charged with 1st degree murder, was later acquitted in 2005. Attim Almeida was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to eight (8) years.
On December 5 2001 Ivandro Correia (17) was a passenger in a vehicle along with Justin Cromwell, Charles & Dwyer Crowder, all three (3) of these men were reputed Monte Park gang members.
On the night of the shooting, they pulled into a south-end gas station shortly before the shooting. At the time, the men noticed they were being followed and carefully watched by Ruth Street gang members. They exited the gas station, drove onto Cove Street, then onto Ruth Street where the following vehicle, being operated by Chad Dargis, pulled along their vehicle and shots were fired.
Correia was struck in the chest, Cromwell and Dwyer Crowder were injured. They drove to St Luke's Hospital where Correia died from his wounds. Chad Dargis was never charged with any crimes relating to this incident.
In 2002 an informant provided information that accused Brandon Gonsalves (24), also a Ruth Street Gang member, was the trigger person that night Ivandro Correia was killed. Gonsalves denied any involvement in the shooting or in any gang activity. Gonsalves was never charged with any crimes related to this incident.
On June 24 2002 Ryan Aguiar (24), a known Ruth Street gang member, was shot and killed while sitting in a vehicle on Ruth Street. Witnesses reported two (2) men ran up and shot him multiple times.
Two (2) men were later arrested and charged in connection to Aguiar's murder, Attim Almeida (27) and Manuel Silva (19). The investigation determined Aguiar's murder was retaliation for the killing of Ivandro Correia. It was learned Manuel Silva and Ivandro Correia are brothers. Manuel Silva was charged with 1st degree murder, was later acquitted in 2005. Attim Almeida was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to eight (8) years.
Ismael Martinez Jr. Unsolved Murder 1999
On January 19 1999 at 6:35 PM Ismael Martinez (27) was discovered shot in the chest inside the hallway at 323 North Front Street. Martinez was rushed to St. Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced died an hour later.
Martinez most recently listed a Kilburn Street, Fall River, address but resided in New Bedford on Merrimac Street, South First Street and State Street most of his life. Martinez was also known by the alias Ismael Rosa and had an extensive criminal record in Fall River and New Bedford, with multiple convictions for dealing heroin and cocaine.
Martinez has served several sentences in prison, most recently spent 60 days at the Dartmouth House of Correction for a traffic violation. He was released November 28, 1998.
A lead was developed in the case that a suspect was identified and is currently in the Dominican Republic.
On January 19 1999 at 6:35 PM Ismael Martinez (27) was discovered shot in the chest inside the hallway at 323 North Front Street. Martinez was rushed to St. Luke's Hospital where he was pronounced died an hour later.
Martinez most recently listed a Kilburn Street, Fall River, address but resided in New Bedford on Merrimac Street, South First Street and State Street most of his life. Martinez was also known by the alias Ismael Rosa and had an extensive criminal record in Fall River and New Bedford, with multiple convictions for dealing heroin and cocaine.
Martinez has served several sentences in prison, most recently spent 60 days at the Dartmouth House of Correction for a traffic violation. He was released November 28, 1998.
A lead was developed in the case that a suspect was identified and is currently in the Dominican Republic.
Peter Kenham Unsolved Murder 1995
On July 26, 1995 around 10:45 AM Peter Kenham (80), A WW-II veteran, was discovered stabbed to death in his living room at 966 Tradewind Street. A cord was found tied to one of Mr. Kenham's wrists. It was determined he was stabbed several times and choked.
Investigators found no evidence of a struggle and no signs of forced entry.
Neighbors reported they last saw Kenham a few couple hours before he was found dead by his nephew. Massachusetts State Police police have gone through the home on several occasions looking for some evidence. A search of a field near the home was conducted with a metal detector looking for the murder weapon. It was never found.
Mr. Kenham, who was the widower of Sophie Ganim Kenham, worked at Revere Copper and Brass as a supervisor for 35 years.
As the investigation continued, police learned Kenham was an active sports bookie. And though no betting cards were found in the house, police began expanding their investigation to known gamblers and bookies. The murder happened at about the time Timothy Mello is accused of solidifying an illegal gambling network in New Bedford. It remains unknown if Kenham knew or worked for Mello.
On July 26, 1995 around 10:45 AM Peter Kenham (80), A WW-II veteran, was discovered stabbed to death in his living room at 966 Tradewind Street. A cord was found tied to one of Mr. Kenham's wrists. It was determined he was stabbed several times and choked.
Investigators found no evidence of a struggle and no signs of forced entry.
Neighbors reported they last saw Kenham a few couple hours before he was found dead by his nephew. Massachusetts State Police police have gone through the home on several occasions looking for some evidence. A search of a field near the home was conducted with a metal detector looking for the murder weapon. It was never found.
Mr. Kenham, who was the widower of Sophie Ganim Kenham, worked at Revere Copper and Brass as a supervisor for 35 years.
As the investigation continued, police learned Kenham was an active sports bookie. And though no betting cards were found in the house, police began expanding their investigation to known gamblers and bookies. The murder happened at about the time Timothy Mello is accused of solidifying an illegal gambling network in New Bedford. It remains unknown if Kenham knew or worked for Mello.
Angel L. Vasquez Unsolved Murder 1995
On September 29, 1995 Angel Vasquez (24) and Brent Bramwell III (21) both suffered severely stabbed after an altercation near the Tifereth Isreal Cemetery on Old Plainville Road. Vasquez died from his injuries.
Investigators determined a fight occurred between the victims, two of their friends, and another unidentified groups of males. Initial investigation determined the incident was influenced by alcohol use.
Vazquez and Bramwell along with the two other males were sitting in their vehicle drinking alcohol when a second vehicle with four males approached. For reasons still unknown a fight occurred, then the stabbing.
Investigators were never able to locate those involved or the knife (or knives) used during the altercation. Vasquez left behind two (2) children.
On September 29, 1995 Angel Vasquez (24) and Brent Bramwell III (21) both suffered severely stabbed after an altercation near the Tifereth Isreal Cemetery on Old Plainville Road. Vasquez died from his injuries.
Investigators determined a fight occurred between the victims, two of their friends, and another unidentified groups of males. Initial investigation determined the incident was influenced by alcohol use.
Vazquez and Bramwell along with the two other males were sitting in their vehicle drinking alcohol when a second vehicle with four males approached. For reasons still unknown a fight occurred, then the stabbing.
Investigators were never able to locate those involved or the knife (or knives) used during the altercation. Vasquez left behind two (2) children.
Ronald Cruz Unsolved Murder 1985
On January 13, 1985 Ronald Cruz (22) was assaulted in New Bedford, and he died from his injuries approximately one week later. His death was ruled a homicide.
On January 13, 1985 Ronald Cruz (22) was assaulted in New Bedford, and he died from his injuries approximately one week later. His death was ruled a homicide.
Shirley Partin, Dorothy Danielson, Joanne Andrade
Grand Jury Investigation
The Bristol County Grand Jury investigating the Highway Murders case did review these unsolved cases for possible connections. These cases weren't added to the Highway Murder case profile due to the fact none of these victims were dumped on a highway or near a highway. Although Herman Melville Blvd runs along side Route 18.
Shirley Partin Unsolved Murder 1985
In September 1985 the body of Shirley Partin was discovered along the railroad tracks near 281 Herman Melville Blvd. She was beaten, strangled and then her body was hidden under a commercial-sized generator platform.
Dorothy Danielson Unsolved Murder 1986 On July 16 1986 the body of Dorothy Danielson (20) was discovered along the railroad tracks on Herman Melville Blvd. She was sexually assaulted with a foreign object, beaten, and strangled. Her body was discovered 600 feet from the site where Shirley Partin's body was discovered in 1985. She was last seen at Alfie's Place on Ashley Blvd. Danielson was from Fall River, and in a twist, was the roommate of another homicide victim, Gayle Botelho. The individual responsible for Gayle's death, Daniel Tavares Jr., is currently in prison.
Joanne Andrade Unsolved Murder1987 On October 25 1987 the body of Joanne Andrade (35) was discovered floating in the water off the State Pier. She was beaten, and strangled, sexual assault couldn't be determined. Her body was discovered 1/2 mile from the site where Shirley Partin and Dorothy Danielson were discovered. She was last seen on October 23 1987 at a bar in the North End of New Bedford. Autopsy results determined her time of death was 14 hours prior to her discovery. She was from Dartmouth, and was laid to rest in Sacred Heart Cemetery.
Grand Jury Investigation
The Bristol County Grand Jury investigating the Highway Murders case did review these unsolved cases for possible connections. These cases weren't added to the Highway Murder case profile due to the fact none of these victims were dumped on a highway or near a highway. Although Herman Melville Blvd runs along side Route 18.
Shirley Partin Unsolved Murder 1985
In September 1985 the body of Shirley Partin was discovered along the railroad tracks near 281 Herman Melville Blvd. She was beaten, strangled and then her body was hidden under a commercial-sized generator platform.
Dorothy Danielson Unsolved Murder 1986 On July 16 1986 the body of Dorothy Danielson (20) was discovered along the railroad tracks on Herman Melville Blvd. She was sexually assaulted with a foreign object, beaten, and strangled. Her body was discovered 600 feet from the site where Shirley Partin's body was discovered in 1985. She was last seen at Alfie's Place on Ashley Blvd. Danielson was from Fall River, and in a twist, was the roommate of another homicide victim, Gayle Botelho. The individual responsible for Gayle's death, Daniel Tavares Jr., is currently in prison.
Joanne Andrade Unsolved Murder1987 On October 25 1987 the body of Joanne Andrade (35) was discovered floating in the water off the State Pier. She was beaten, and strangled, sexual assault couldn't be determined. Her body was discovered 1/2 mile from the site where Shirley Partin and Dorothy Danielson were discovered. She was last seen on October 23 1987 at a bar in the North End of New Bedford. Autopsy results determined her time of death was 14 hours prior to her discovery. She was from Dartmouth, and was laid to rest in Sacred Heart Cemetery.
John Moura Unsolved Murder 1985 On May 30th, 1985 the body of John Moura (42) was found behind the wheel of his taxi, which was parked at Fort Rodman. Moura had been shot twice in the back. His wallet containing fifty dollars was found next to him and a gold chain and watch were not taken from him. The taxi and meter were still running. For two decades, police have been looking for a person of interest in Moura’s murder. Moura had picked up a man in front of the Bank of Boston building on Pleasant Street in New Bedford at 11am that day. Two hours after the pickup, his body was found.
The person of interest is described as a white male with black hair that was neatly groomed. He was around five feet, seven inches tall and around 170 pounds with a slight gut and medium build. The clothing the man wore at the time was a black T-shirt, black pants and he may have been carrying a black or tan jacket.
The person of interest is described as a white male with black hair that was neatly groomed. He was around five feet, seven inches tall and around 170 pounds with a slight gut and medium build. The clothing the man wore at the time was a black T-shirt, black pants and he may have been carrying a black or tan jacket.
Kenneth Arsenault Jr. Unsolved Murder 1978
On February 20, 1978 Kenneth Arsenault Jr. (24) and his wife Margaret had left the home of Arsenault's parents, Jean (died 2004) and Kenneth Arsenault Sr. (died 2012 ). Margaret dropped Kenneth off at M & C's Cafe on Belleville Avenue. She was pregnant with their son and wasn't interested in accompanying him to a bar. Investigators believe Kenneth may have visited several establishments before ending up at J & C's Lounge on Sawyer and North front Streets.
Just before midnight, Kenneth left the bar. Witnesses and the bartender reported there was no altercations involving Kenneth, however he was seen talking with yet to be identified woman.
Just after midnight on February 21, 1978 New Bedford Police were dispatched to 162 Sawyer Street for an unrelated disturbance. Upon arrival they discovered Kenneth laying on top of a snowbank waving his arms to attract their attention. Kenneth had been stabbed in his right side and was bleeding heavily from the inch and half wound. At the time Kenneth reported to the police he was stabbed in the area of Mars Bargainland on Riverside Avenue and gave a brief description of the assailant. He was rushed to St. Luke's Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery, he later succumbed to his injuries later that day.
Investigators determined there was a 20-minute gap in time between when Kenneth left the bar and when police discovered him bleeding on Sawyer Street. There were no blood stains within a two-block radius from the Sawyer Street scene.
Robbery was ruled out as a motive, since Kenneth still had money in his pockets, no weapon was ever located. His parents posted a $500 reward for any information relating to the murder, no information ever came in. Investigators had informed Margaret they had a suspect, but due to lack of witnesses no charges were filed.
Eleven (11) years later, On March 29 1989, tragedy would strike the Arsenault Family again. Kenneth's sister, Robin Rhodes was found dead along Route 140. Her death would later become tied to the, still unsolved, Highway Killings Case.
Margaret and her son, born three (3) weeks after Kenneth's murder, remained in New Bedford until 1990. On June 16 1990 Margaret became a key witness in the Morris Pina death case. Morris Pina Jr., (32), was hiding under a boat in the backyard 19 Mapleview Terrace. The resident, Margaret Arsenault called the New Bedford Police when she heard Pina talking to a "Mike", who wasn't there. Margaret Arsenault had been living a quiet life since her husband's murder.
Margaret's story of what she witnessed during the capture and arrest of Morris Pina is well documented -- in affidavits, depositions and court testimony. After the trial, Margaret and her son moved to Florida. Her son later became a police officer for the Kissimmee Police Department.
Kenneth Arsenault Jr is buried in Pine Grove Cemetery along with his parents.
On February 20, 1978 Kenneth Arsenault Jr. (24) and his wife Margaret had left the home of Arsenault's parents, Jean (died 2004) and Kenneth Arsenault Sr. (died 2012 ). Margaret dropped Kenneth off at M & C's Cafe on Belleville Avenue. She was pregnant with their son and wasn't interested in accompanying him to a bar. Investigators believe Kenneth may have visited several establishments before ending up at J & C's Lounge on Sawyer and North front Streets.
Just before midnight, Kenneth left the bar. Witnesses and the bartender reported there was no altercations involving Kenneth, however he was seen talking with yet to be identified woman.
Just after midnight on February 21, 1978 New Bedford Police were dispatched to 162 Sawyer Street for an unrelated disturbance. Upon arrival they discovered Kenneth laying on top of a snowbank waving his arms to attract their attention. Kenneth had been stabbed in his right side and was bleeding heavily from the inch and half wound. At the time Kenneth reported to the police he was stabbed in the area of Mars Bargainland on Riverside Avenue and gave a brief description of the assailant. He was rushed to St. Luke's Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery, he later succumbed to his injuries later that day.
Investigators determined there was a 20-minute gap in time between when Kenneth left the bar and when police discovered him bleeding on Sawyer Street. There were no blood stains within a two-block radius from the Sawyer Street scene.
Robbery was ruled out as a motive, since Kenneth still had money in his pockets, no weapon was ever located. His parents posted a $500 reward for any information relating to the murder, no information ever came in. Investigators had informed Margaret they had a suspect, but due to lack of witnesses no charges were filed.
Eleven (11) years later, On March 29 1989, tragedy would strike the Arsenault Family again. Kenneth's sister, Robin Rhodes was found dead along Route 140. Her death would later become tied to the, still unsolved, Highway Killings Case.
Margaret and her son, born three (3) weeks after Kenneth's murder, remained in New Bedford until 1990. On June 16 1990 Margaret became a key witness in the Morris Pina death case. Morris Pina Jr., (32), was hiding under a boat in the backyard 19 Mapleview Terrace. The resident, Margaret Arsenault called the New Bedford Police when she heard Pina talking to a "Mike", who wasn't there. Margaret Arsenault had been living a quiet life since her husband's murder.
Margaret's story of what she witnessed during the capture and arrest of Morris Pina is well documented -- in affidavits, depositions and court testimony. After the trial, Margaret and her son moved to Florida. Her son later became a police officer for the Kissimmee Police Department.
Kenneth Arsenault Jr is buried in Pine Grove Cemetery along with his parents.
Beatriz Cunha Unsolved Murder 1977
On October 4 1977 the body of Beatriz Cunha (85) was discovered on her living room inside her apartment at 112 Winterville Road. A Water Department meter reader discovered the back door of Cunha’s New Bedford home on Winterville Road was unlocked and alerted a neighbor. Her son-in-law along with the neighbor made the discovery. New Bedford Police Lt. Henry N. Fernandes said the telephone wires in the house were cut and both floors were ransacked. Cunha was found wearing a nightgown with a rug covering her body.
Autopsy results determined the cause of death to be from asphyxiation by manual strangulation and was ruled a homicide. Beatriz was a widow at the time of her death, her husband Jose F. Cunha died in 1963.
Beatriz was born in Portugal and was taken out of school when she was 12 years-old to help raise her younger brother and sisters after her mother died. She immigrated to the US when she was 18. Beatriz and her husband Jose scraped money together to purchase a large tract of land in the West End. The land was later subdivided into house lots that spanned three streets.
On October 4 1977 the body of Beatriz Cunha (85) was discovered on her living room inside her apartment at 112 Winterville Road. A Water Department meter reader discovered the back door of Cunha’s New Bedford home on Winterville Road was unlocked and alerted a neighbor. Her son-in-law along with the neighbor made the discovery. New Bedford Police Lt. Henry N. Fernandes said the telephone wires in the house were cut and both floors were ransacked. Cunha was found wearing a nightgown with a rug covering her body.
Autopsy results determined the cause of death to be from asphyxiation by manual strangulation and was ruled a homicide. Beatriz was a widow at the time of her death, her husband Jose F. Cunha died in 1963.
Beatriz was born in Portugal and was taken out of school when she was 12 years-old to help raise her younger brother and sisters after her mother died. She immigrated to the US when she was 18. Beatriz and her husband Jose scraped money together to purchase a large tract of land in the West End. The land was later subdivided into house lots that spanned three streets.
Violet Ivy Robinson Unsolved Murder 1978
On December 22 1978 Violet "Ivy" Robinson (76) was discovered in her living room of her home at 367 Teresa Street. Her body was discovered by her brothers after the went to her home to check on her after they were contacted by her daughter who was unable to contact her. The phone line was a constant busy signal. Her brothers entered the home and discovered the TV was still on, an end table and lamp were knocked over and the telephone was off the hook.
Autopsy results determined the cause of death to be from "asphyxiation of blood" caused by multiple wounds to her head. She had been struck eleven (11) times with a broken garden edger, which they found pieces of in the house and in the backyard. Blood stains were found on the four-foot long handle.
Violet's husband had died many years prior. There were possible suspects investigated, but no arrests were made.
Robinson had immigrated to the US from England when she was a child, and was a housewife and later got a job working at Sears, Roebuck, and Company in downtown New Bedford and later at the Dartmouth Mall. Robinson is buried in the Padanaram Cemetery in Dartmouth.
On December 22 1978 Violet "Ivy" Robinson (76) was discovered in her living room of her home at 367 Teresa Street. Her body was discovered by her brothers after the went to her home to check on her after they were contacted by her daughter who was unable to contact her. The phone line was a constant busy signal. Her brothers entered the home and discovered the TV was still on, an end table and lamp were knocked over and the telephone was off the hook.
Autopsy results determined the cause of death to be from "asphyxiation of blood" caused by multiple wounds to her head. She had been struck eleven (11) times with a broken garden edger, which they found pieces of in the house and in the backyard. Blood stains were found on the four-foot long handle.
Violet's husband had died many years prior. There were possible suspects investigated, but no arrests were made.
Robinson had immigrated to the US from England when she was a child, and was a housewife and later got a job working at Sears, Roebuck, and Company in downtown New Bedford and later at the Dartmouth Mall. Robinson is buried in the Padanaram Cemetery in Dartmouth.
Joaquim "Jack" Perry Unsolved Murder 1975
On October 4 1975 Joaquim Perry (21) went missing, he was last seen leaving his New Bedford home she shared with his then pregnant wife Laura. Joaquim was also the father of a 3-year child from a previous relationship. When he left the home, there was no indication where he was going or why, but did tell his wife that he would return later. He never returned and Laura reported him missing to New Bedford Police.
On October 19 1975 his beaten body was discovered by a local teen riding a dirt bike in the gravel pit off of New Plainville Road, behind the New Bedford Airport. Investigators determined he was assaulted with a baseball bat or a club and was dragged thru the woods to the site where his body was discovered. Autopsy results determined he suffered head trauma, three (3) skull fractures and a broken jaw.
Witness
In 1979 New Bedford Police Lieutenant Edmund Craig discussed the case with the Standard Times. During that discussion he indicated there was a witness who claimed she saw Joaquim standing by a green sedan near the airport terminal engaged in a heated argument with an unknown white male and a white female. This witness also reported seeing another white male, white female and a black male standing not far where the heated argument was occurring. This witness claimed Joaquim recognized her and waved as she drove by. The witness stated she couldn't identify the individuals, but investigators indicated she expressed fear and wished not to provide further information or participate in the investigation. Why Joaquim was at the airport remains a mystery as well.
New Bedford Police ruled out the theory Joaquim was a victim of a robbery, this was based on $51.25 still in his pocket, and his wedding ring was still on his finger at the time his body was discovered. Lt. Craig admitted there were rumors on the streets that Joaquim was involved in some big drug dealing operation, however there is no evidence to support this theory.
After the initial investigation, Joaquim's clothing, shoes, and wedding ring were returned to his wife, subsequently those items were thrown away or lost. There is nothing to test for DNA. Evidence collection and storage procedures are very different today in comparison to 1977.
Investigation 2012
The family approached then-District Attorney Samuel Sutter to re-examine the case. Sutter had great success with solving unsolved cases during his term as District Attorney. Sutter advised the family that he had re-examined the case back in 2007 but there were was no new information.
Investigation 2020
District Attorney Thomas Quinn announced that Joaquim's case was now part of the newly formed Cold Case Unit, and is reviewing every piece evidence from every homicide over the last 45 years to determine if they can develop new leads with access to new technology.
On October 4 1975 Joaquim Perry (21) went missing, he was last seen leaving his New Bedford home she shared with his then pregnant wife Laura. Joaquim was also the father of a 3-year child from a previous relationship. When he left the home, there was no indication where he was going or why, but did tell his wife that he would return later. He never returned and Laura reported him missing to New Bedford Police.
On October 19 1975 his beaten body was discovered by a local teen riding a dirt bike in the gravel pit off of New Plainville Road, behind the New Bedford Airport. Investigators determined he was assaulted with a baseball bat or a club and was dragged thru the woods to the site where his body was discovered. Autopsy results determined he suffered head trauma, three (3) skull fractures and a broken jaw.
Witness
In 1979 New Bedford Police Lieutenant Edmund Craig discussed the case with the Standard Times. During that discussion he indicated there was a witness who claimed she saw Joaquim standing by a green sedan near the airport terminal engaged in a heated argument with an unknown white male and a white female. This witness also reported seeing another white male, white female and a black male standing not far where the heated argument was occurring. This witness claimed Joaquim recognized her and waved as she drove by. The witness stated she couldn't identify the individuals, but investigators indicated she expressed fear and wished not to provide further information or participate in the investigation. Why Joaquim was at the airport remains a mystery as well.
New Bedford Police ruled out the theory Joaquim was a victim of a robbery, this was based on $51.25 still in his pocket, and his wedding ring was still on his finger at the time his body was discovered. Lt. Craig admitted there were rumors on the streets that Joaquim was involved in some big drug dealing operation, however there is no evidence to support this theory.
After the initial investigation, Joaquim's clothing, shoes, and wedding ring were returned to his wife, subsequently those items were thrown away or lost. There is nothing to test for DNA. Evidence collection and storage procedures are very different today in comparison to 1977.
Investigation 2012
The family approached then-District Attorney Samuel Sutter to re-examine the case. Sutter had great success with solving unsolved cases during his term as District Attorney. Sutter advised the family that he had re-examined the case back in 2007 but there were was no new information.
Investigation 2020
District Attorney Thomas Quinn announced that Joaquim's case was now part of the newly formed Cold Case Unit, and is reviewing every piece evidence from every homicide over the last 45 years to determine if they can develop new leads with access to new technology.
Andrew Loring Unsolved Murder 1961
On March 4 1961 New Bedford Mayor Lawler offered a $500 reward for information leading to the conviction of the hatchet-swinging murderer of Andrew Loring 1895-1961 (65). Loring's murder occurred on March 1 1961. Loring walked into his house and was confronted the suspect going through his belongings. Some information obtained claimed this occurred near Ash and Morgan Streets. It appears Loring left behind a wife and son. He is buried in Sacred Heart Cemetery.
On March 4 1961 New Bedford Mayor Lawler offered a $500 reward for information leading to the conviction of the hatchet-swinging murderer of Andrew Loring 1895-1961 (65). Loring's murder occurred on March 1 1961. Loring walked into his house and was confronted the suspect going through his belongings. Some information obtained claimed this occurred near Ash and Morgan Streets. It appears Loring left behind a wife and son. He is buried in Sacred Heart Cemetery.
Hattie Carter Unsolved Murder 1909 On April 28 1909 the body of Hattie Carter (28) was discovered the second-floor apartment at 9 So. Water Street. Her remains were hidden between two (2) mattresses that were left on the bed. Her head was covered with a blood-soaked sheet. At the time of the discovery her identify was unknown, until her sister Louisa Johnson from Newport R.I., contacted police regarding her sister. No official cause of death was able to be determined due to the advanced decomposition of the body, however suicide was ruled out. Investigators determined Carter had died several weeks prior before the discovery of her remains. No suspects were ever identified.
The investigation had revealed Carter had received a $50 fine for keeping a disorderly house. Oddly, her death certificate states she was married, but the husbands name was not documented.
The investigation had revealed Carter had received a $50 fine for keeping a disorderly house. Oddly, her death certificate states she was married, but the husbands name was not documented.