A double shooting late Wednesday night, December 27 in Lynn, Massachusetts, claimed the lives of two teenagers, stirring widespread concern and prompting a police investigation into what is believed to be a series of targeted attacks.
Around 10:20 p.m. on Wednesday, gunfire erupted on Camden Street, near two auto body shops, leaving a 16-year-old, and a 19-year-old, identified as Kyle Mel, a junior at Lynn Classical High School, mortally wounded. Both victims were quickly transported to North Shore Medical Center, where they succumbed to their injuries.
Mel’s father, Saveth Kul, expressed being shocked about his son’s death, saying that Kyle aspired to be a rapper and was a good son.
This incident follows a shooting that occurred the previous night near a Pizza Hut restaurant in Lynn, where three people suffered multiple gunshot wounds. The victims of this earlier attack were taken to Massachusetts General Hospital and are reported to be in stable condition as of Thursday.
Lynn Police Chief Christopher Reddy has indicated that these shootings appear to be deliberate and targeted. The police are seeking help from the public in their ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made in connection with either incident.
In response to these violent acts, Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson expressed his deep frustration and condemnation, describing the events as “devastating, infuriating, and utterly unacceptable.” The mayor has pledged to increase the police presence in the city and emphasized the urgency of restoring peace and safety in the community.
Lynn Public Schools Superintendent Evonne Alvarez confirmed that the 16-year-old victim was a student in the district. In a heartfelt message to families, Alvarez extended condolences and emphasized the importance of community support during this challenging time.
Residents and workers in the vicinity of the shootings expressed shock and disbelief. Deybi Merida, who was near the scene, initially mistook the gunshots for fireworks. Chris Rippy, a neighbor, noted the quiet nature of the area, expressing dismay over the violence that disrupted the peace.
A night vigil in honor of the two teenagers was held on Thursday, December 28 by the community.
