Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Double Homicide in Worcester Leads to Arrest of Suspect in San Diego
Authorities have confirmed that the suspect involved in the fatal shooting of a mother and her 11-year-old daughter in Worcester, Massachusetts, has been apprehended in San Diego, California. The suspect, identified as Dejan Belnavis, was taken into custody on Friday and has signed a waiver of extradition, allowing him to be brought back to Massachusetts to face charges related to the March 5 incident.
Details of the Incident
The tragic incident occurred on the afternoon of March 5, when police responded to reports of gunshots in the area of Lisbon Street and Englewood Avenue in Worcester. Upon arrival, they discovered Chasity Nunez and her daughter Zella Nunez inside a parked car, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite being transported to a local hospital, both victims succumbed to their injuries.
Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of Karel Mangual, 28, in connection with the shooting. Belnavis was later identified as a second suspect, and efforts were made to locate him.
Arrest and Extradition Process
Belnavis, 27, was eventually tracked down in San Diego and taken into custody on charges of armed assault to murder and carrying a firearm without a license in relation to the double homicide. Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early, Jr. has confirmed that once Belnavis is brought back to Massachusetts, he will also face murder charges.
While details surrounding the arrest in San Diego remain limited, Interim Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier mentioned that the suspect was found in the vicinity of the San Diego Zoo and had altered his appearance from previous photographs. Although he was in close proximity to Mexico, authorities have refrained from speculating on whether he was attempting to flee the country.
As of the latest update, Belnavis has signed the waiver of extradition, paving the way for his return to Massachusetts to stand trial for his alleged involvement in the tragic double homicide. The arraignment date in Worcester has yet to be scheduled as investigations continue.
Grace Zokovitch contributed to this report.
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