NORTHBOROUGH – A shooting during a party in Northborough has resulted in the death of a 16-year-old boy from Bellingham.
Three people face firearm-related charges – two 19-year-old men and a 27-year-old man. They are currently being held at the Northborough Police Station. Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early Jr. said during a press conference that the suspects are not Northborough residents.
At about 1 a.m. on May 12, a pedestrian flagged down a Northborough police officer and said that someone brandished a firearm at 333 Howard St., according to Early.
Northborough police requested assistance from other departments, including Westborough, Shrewsbury, Southborough, Boylston, Berlin, Marlborough and the State Police. Early said while the police were getting ready to enter the site, officers heard “multiple” gunshots.
Police entered the home; Early described the scene as “chaotic.”
“There were several hundred people on the property,” he said.
First responders provided aid to the 16-year-old victim, and police carried the victim down the hill into an ambulance. The victim was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased, Early said.
“Our thoughts go out to the victim and the victim’s family during this senseless act of violence. It’s especially difficult being Mother’s Day,” said Northborough Police Chief Brian Griffin.
The other victim – a 17-year-old male who was shot in the buttocks – was taken to Marlborough Hospital where he was treated and released. Early said two other people were transported to Marlborough Hospital for the treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
He also said that “several” people who had visible injuries were treated but declined to be taken to the hospital.
Early said the Northborough police had been in touch with the homeowner “over the last couple of days with regards to this as to whether or not there will be a party.”
“Northborough police told them they did not want a party at this house,” said Early.
According to Griffin, last month the police received information afterwards that there was a “large gathering” and had spoken with the homeowner.
“He assured us that that was the last of it. Obviously, that was not the case,” said Griffin.
Griffin commended the first responders.
“The officers who responded – not only did they respond to the chaotic scene, they rendered medical aid while also dealing with active gunshots while they were responding,” said Griffin.
The suspects will be arraigned in Westborough District Court on May 13.
The investigation is ongoing. Police are seeking help from anyone who may have information or video from the party.
If you have any information, call the Northborough Police Department at 508-393-1515.