In a devastating turn of events, a peaceful neighborhood in Massachusetts became the scene of a horrific crime as a mother and her 11-year-old daughter were fatally shot while parked in their SUV. The incident, which occurred in broad daylight, has left the community reeling and law enforcement agencies on high alert as they pursue the named suspect who remains at large.
The victims, identified as Chastity and Zella Nunez, were mercilessly gunned down shortly after 3 p.m. on a Monday afternoon in Worcester, Massachusetts. Police officers discovered their lifeless bodies inside the SUV, which bore the grim evidence of the violence with bullet holes riddling the windshield.
Chastity, a mother of two as suggested by her social media profile, and her young daughter Zella were rushed to the hospital but were tragically pronounced dead upon arrival, leaving a gaping hole in the hearts of their loved ones.
While one suspect has already been apprehended, identified only as a man, authorities are intensively searching for a second individual, Dejan Belnavis, 27, believed to be connected to the heinous double homicide.
According to reports, surveillance footage captured chilling moments preceding the shooting, depicting the victims parked in their vehicle as two assailants approached and opened fire without mercy. The brazen act of violence has shaken the community to its core, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for justice.
The investigation has revealed that the Nunez family was located on Englewood Avenue, a mere 12-minute drive from Belnavis’ residence on Toronita Avenue, raising speculation about a potential connection between the suspects and the victims.
Further complicating the case, witnesses reported seeing a suspicious vehicle circling the area prior to the shooting, which matched the description of a car later discovered in Hartford, Connecticut, approximately an hour’s drive from the crime scene.
In a joint statement, city officials including the mayor, city manager, police chief, and school district superintendent expressed profound sorrow over the senseless loss of two members of the Worcester community. They emphasized the need for patience, privacy, and solidarity as the city grapples with the aftermath of such a horrific event.
Amidst the grief and shock, authorities have issued a warning regarding Belnavis, urging the public to exercise caution as he is considered armed and dangerous. Notably, Belnavis faces charges of armed assault with intent to murder and illegal possession of a firearm, with previous firearm-related offenses from 2021 further heightening concerns about his potential threat to public safety.
The search for answers continues as law enforcement agencies appeal to the public for any information that could aid in the apprehension of the remaining suspect and shed light on the motive behind this tragic act of violence. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Worcester Police Department at 508-799-8651.
As the community mourns the untimely loss of Chastity and Zella Nunez, their memory serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address issues of gun violence and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. In the face of adversity, the resilience and solidarity of the Worcester community stand as a beacon of hope in the pursuit of justice and healing.