The Essex County grand jury has handed down indictments to six individuals linked to a drive-by shooting that claimed the lives of two men and injured five others in Lynn. The fatal incident unfolded at 189 Essex Street on September 2, 2023. Those charged include Justin Alba, 25, of Peabody; Darwin Batista, 20; Yefferson Vallecillo Cambar, 22; Carlos Ramirez Corniel, 16; Leonardo Espinoza, 15; and Abel Severino Reyes, 21, all residents of Lynn.
According to the Essex County District Attorney's Office, each defendant faces two counts of murder, for the deaths of Jandriel Heredia, 21, of Revere, and Abraham Diaz, 25, of Lynn. The charges extend to one count of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury, and, four counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Ramirez Corniel and Espinoza, being under the age of 18 at the time of the incident, are indicted as youthful offenders.
Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker highlighted the collaborative effort in the investigation, stating, "These indictments are a result of the tremendous partnerships this office has with the Lynn Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section and State Police Detectives assigned to Essex." He acknowledged the perseverance of Assistant District Attorney Jessica Strasnick and the prosecution team in their pursuit to combat gun violence within the county.
Lynn Police Chief Chris Reddy credited the combined efforts that led to these indictments, noting, "The indictment of these six individuals represents a significant step in seeking justice for the victims in this case that, deeply impacted our community." He expressed gratitude towards the multiple law enforcement agencies that were involved throughout the extensive investigation process. It is important to remember that all suspects and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
