Carver, Massachusetts — A shooting that erupted during a child’s birthday party has left two men dead and two others critically injured, prompting a murder charge against a local man. Authorities have characterized the incident, which occurred on Saturday night, as a targeted attack.
The violence unfolded just after 7 p.m. at the Saint John the Baptist Club on Silva Street, where the celebration was being held. Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz reported that multiple law enforcement agencies were dispatched to the scene following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered four individuals suffering from gunshot wounds, two of whom succumbed to their injuries.
The victims were identified as Benjamin Cowart, 27, who died at the scene, and Jalen Pina, 20, who later passed away at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth. The remaining victims, aged 28 and 32, were transported to local hospitals and are currently in critical condition.
Nicholas Meuse, 23, is accused of opening fire at the party and was apprehended by police shortly after the shooting. Authorities found him a short distance from the club and took him into custody without incident. He faces charges that include two counts of murder, armed assault with intent to murder, and various firearm-related offenses.
Details surrounding the shooter’s motives and his relationship with the victims remain unclear. However, investigators have indicated that the shooting does not appear to have been a random act of violence. The Carver Police Department assured the public that there is no ongoing threat.
In the aftermath of the tragic event, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses for Pina, who was remembered on social media as an aspiring rapper and a vibrant youth. The fundraiser has garnered significant support, raising over $14,000 towards its $18,000 goal.
Carver Police Chief Marc Duphily expressed gratitude to the community for its support during this challenging time. “The responsible individual was quickly taken into custody,” he noted, extending condolences to the victims’ families.
As investigators continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting, they have closed Silva Street to manage the ongoing inquiry involving the Massachusetts State Police and local authorities. The preliminary court appearance for Meuse is expected to take place in Wareham District Court shortly.