Massachusetts man murdered on birthday; remembered as good person, car enthusiast

A Massachusetts man has been charged in connection with a fatal shooting after an individual was found suffering from apparent gunshot wounds Wednesday evening, Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker and Lawrence Acting Chief of Police Melix Bonilla announced.

On Wednesday, Lawrence police responded to a report of shots fired in the Margin Street area. Upon arrival, the responding units found an adult male suffering from gunshot wounds. He was treated on scene, transported to a local hospital and then to a Boston area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

Family members say the victim is Sote Rivera of Lawrence who was celebrating his birthday Wednesday. He was remembered as a good person and car enthusiast.

Jason Rivera, 28, of Lawrence, MA has been charged with Murder and is being held without bail.

He is due back to court on May 17th, 2024.

The case is being investigated by Detectives assigned to the Essex County District Attorney’s Office and the Lawrence Police Department.

No other details were released.