Two men were killed and two others critically injured in a shooting at a child’s birthday party at Saint John the Baptist Club in Carver, Massachusetts, on Jan. 24. Authorities arrested 23-year-old Nicholas Meuse nearby; he faces murder and multiple firearm-related charges. Officials say the attack appears to have been targeted and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Investigators from the Carver Police Department and Massachusetts State Police continue to work the case.
Two Dead, Two Critically Injured in Shooting at Child's Birthday Party in Carver, Massachusetts — 23-Year-Old Charged
WCVB Channel 5 BostonEmergency responders outside the social club in Carver, Mass.
Two men were killed and two others critically injured after a shooting at a child’s birthday party held at Saint John the Baptist Club on Silva Street in Carver, Massachusetts, on the evening of Saturday, Jan. 24.
According to Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz, police received reports at about 7:21 p.m. that "multiple people had been shot." Multiple law enforcement agencies responded and located four victims, two of whom were pronounced dead.
The deceased were identified as 27-year-old Benjamin Cowart, who was pronounced dead at the scene, and 20-year-old Jalen Pina, who later died of his injuries at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth. Two other victims — a 28-year-old man and a 32-year-old man — were transported to local hospitals and remain in critical condition, local reports indicate.
Carver Police located a suspect, identified as 23-year-old Nicholas Meuse, down the street from the club. Meuse was arrested at the scene and taken to the Carver Police Department, DA Cruz said.
Carver Police DepartmentA Carver Police Department vehicle
Charges and Court Appearances
Meuse is expected to be arraigned in Wareham District Court on two counts each of murder and armed assault with intent to murder, as well as multiple firearm-related charges. Media reports indicated court appearances were scheduled for Jan. 26 and Jan. 27.
Investigation
The Carver Police Department said the shooting appears to have been a targeted attack rather than a random act. Officials have not released details about any motive or the suspect's connection to the victims. The Massachusetts State Police are assisting the Carver Police Department in the ongoing investigation; Silva Street was closed briefly while investigators worked the scene.
Community Response
Carver Police Chief Marc Duphily thanked neighbors for their cooperation during what he described as a "difficult and emotional scene," saying the responsible individual was quickly taken into custody and that the department's thoughts remain with the victims and their families.
One of the victims, 20-year-old Jalen Pina, was described on a GoFundMe page as an aspiring rapper and a "beautiful soul." The fundraiser had raised more than $14,000 toward an $18,000 goal to assist with funeral expenses. Pina’s social media indicated he performed a show the day before the shooting.
Authorities continue to investigate. People seeking further information should follow official updates from the Carver Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police.
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