An 18-year-old student appeared before a judge for shooting and killing a Salem State University basketball player.
The man was identified as Missael Pena Canela
He is a Salem resident and was arraigned in Salem District Court and held without bail.
A young Massachusetts man appeared before a judge Thursday to respond to allegations that a Salem State University basketball player was shot to death.
The incident happened just before 1:30 a.m. Wednesday at 22 Forest Ave., near the university and at the intersection of Lussier Street. It occurred near the town and killed 18-year-old Carl-Hens Beliard from Worcester.
The man was identified as Missael Pena Canela.
Who is Missael Pena Canela?
Missael Pena Canela is 18 years old. He is a Salem resident and was charged in Salem District Court and held without bail.
The prosecution alleged that Pena Canela was having an erratic relationship with a woman traveling with Beliard at the time of the incident. District attorney Paul Tucker acknowledged the complexity of the case while praising detectives’ quick work in making the arrest.
Salem State University president John Keenan conveyed the shared grief of the campus community and Carl’s loved ones. He also underlined the community’s relief at this rapid rapprochement and expressed hope that it would provide some comfort to Carl’s friends and family.
Beliard attended North High School in Worcester and graduated as a freshman on the Salem State basketball team. The Salem State men’s basketball team stood around the Beliard memorial, paying their respects and releasing the player’s signature basketball.
Under Beliard’s leadership, the North High School basketball team cruised to victory in the Division 1 state championship in March. This achievement was significant for the city, as it was the first time a public school team won the Division 1 state championship.
Al Pettway, North High’s head boys basketball coach, reflected on Beliard’s character and shared fond memories of him. According to him, Beliard was an intelligent student with a smile that could brighten up any environment.
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