DA: Suspect wanted in deadly shooting at Worcester State University captured in New York
A young man wanted in a fatal shooting at Worcester State University has been captured in New York, law enforcement officials said.
Kevin Rodriguez, 18, was apprehended Thursday morning on a warrant in connection with a shooting on the university’s campus on Oct. 28 that left a 19-year-old man dead, according to the Worcester District Attorney’s Office.
Rodriguez is facing charges including unlawful possession of a firearm and armed assault with intent to murder in the death of Randy Armando Melendez Jr., of Southbridge.
The Worcester Police Department, Worcester State University Police, Massachusetts State Police, the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section, and the U.S. Marshals Service worked together in tracking down Rodriguez.
Worcester State University Police responded to the shooting scene after receiving a 911 call. Upon arrival, police located two men, including Melendez, suffering from gunshot wounds.
Melendez died from his injuries. The second victim, a 21-year-old man, was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Randy Melendez’s family says they are glad Rodriguez is caught, but it doesn’t change anything.
They tell Boston 25 News their son didn’t know Rodriguez, and that he was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
According to court documents the shootings took place during an altercation between two groups of people that took place on campus. Cell phone video was recorded from a nearby dorm during the shooting.
The shooting forced school administrators to cancel homecoming and parents’ weekend events as well as cancel all classes on Monday.
It is also forcing a review of security measures at the university.
In a statement, the president of Worcester State University said, quote, “We want to assure our students, their families, and all faculty and staff that the safety and security of our campus remain our top priority. Counseling services, in addition to increased security measures and police presence, will continue to be in place as long as necessary.”
Boston security analyst Dan Linskey says, Worcester State, like many other colleges, must adapt their security to the fact, that off-campus crime can easily find its way on campus.
“Worcester, like any big city, has crime challenges. You need to have a policing program that goes both on your campus and off your campus,” Linskey said.
In a letter to parents earlier in the week, the university said additional safety measures will be announced soon.
The investigation into the shootings at Worcester State University is ongoing.
Kevin Rodriguez, teen wanted for fatal shooting at Worcester State University CAUGHT in New York. @boston25
— Bob Ward Boston 25 (@Bward3) November 2, 2023
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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