17-year-old Massachusetts teen indicted for murder of 19-year-old Eathan Renteria

WORCESTER – A Worcester County Grand Jury handed up a murder indictment against 17-year-old Kayden M. Keane Hoffler in an April shooting death on Paine Street, according to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early Jr. 

Hoffler, of Worcester, was indicted on December 20th on a single count of murder in the death of Eathan Renteria, 19, of Worcester.

The shooting was discovered after Worcester Police responded to the report of a car crashing into a house on Paine Street at approximately 9:00 p.m. on April 30th. Officers discovered Renteria in his vehicle, suffering from a gunshot wound. Renteria was hospitalized for about three weeks before succumbing to his injuries on May 16th.

Hoffler was initially arrested on May 8th and charged in juvenile court on armed assault to murder and firearms charges. On October 1st, he was arraigned on a murder charge in Worcester Central District Court.

The indictment moves the case to Worcester Superior Court where Hoffler is expected to be arraigned on January 13th.

A GoFundMe fundraiser stated that Renteria’s death has left family members shattered and in disbelief.

“Eathan was too young and barely starting his life at 19 years old, and unfortunately we were not ready to let him go, but God had a plan…he needed Eathan more than us, for whatever reason, and for that God has gained another angel by his side to watch over us all.”

“Our family will forever be missing a piece that will never be replaced. Eathan will live through his most valuable physical gems, as he helps others live and to make memories with their loved ones. We are grateful for the memories Eathan gave us all and we will cherish those moments forever in our hearts.”