Massachusetts Murder Case Expands as Second Man Is Arrested in Hugo Delrosario Killing

Authorities have arrested and charged a second man in connection with the 2025 shooting death of a Lawrence resident, marking a significant development in a homicide investigation that has remained active for nearly nine months.

Prosecutors announced that Richard Pena, 24, of Lawrence, has been charged with murder in the death of Hugo Delrosario, 27, who was fatally shot in the city last September. Pena was taken into custody this week and ordered held without bail following his arraignment in Essex County Superior Court.

The arrest comes months after another suspect was charged in the same case, indicating that investigators believe multiple individuals may have been involved in the deadly shooting.

Fatal Shooting Shocked Lawrence Community

The case dates back to September 13, 2025, when police responded to reports of gunfire near 154 Essex Street in Lawrence.

When officers arrived, they found Delrosario suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency responders attempted to provide aid, but the 27-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene. The homicide prompted a lengthy investigation involving Lawrence police, Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, and other law enforcement agencies.

Authorities released few details publicly during the early stages of the investigation, but detectives continued gathering evidence and conducting interviews over the following months.

First Arrest Made Earlier This Year

The first major breakthrough came in January 2026 when investigators arrested Hector Mota, 18, of Haverhill.

Mota was charged with murder and additional firearms offenses, including carrying a loaded firearm without a license and carrying a firearm without a license. He was arraigned in Lawrence District Court and ordered held without bail pending further court proceedings.

At the time, prosecutors did not indicate whether additional suspects were being sought. However, investigators continued pursuing leads as the case moved forward.

Second Arrest Signals Expanding Case

The recent arrest of Pena suggests authorities believe more than one individual played a role in the events that led to Delrosario’s death.

According to court filings, prosecutors have now charged Pena with murder in connection with the same shooting. He was arrested on an outstanding Massachusetts warrant and brought before a judge, who ordered him held without bail while the case proceeds through the court system.

Officials have not yet disclosed the specific evidence that led to Pena’s arrest, nor have they detailed how prosecutors believe the two defendants were connected to the crime.

Prosecutors Remain Tight-Lipped

Investigators and prosecutors have released only limited information regarding the circumstances of the homicide.

Authorities have not publicly discussed a possible motive, whether Delrosario knew the suspects, or whether they believe the shooting was targeted. Court records currently provide few details about the events immediately leading up to the killing.

Law enforcement officials often withhold investigative details in active homicide cases, particularly when multiple defendants are involved and additional legal proceedings are expected.

Family Still Seeking Justice

For Delrosario’s family and friends, the latest arrest represents another step toward accountability.

Although prosecutors have now charged two individuals, the legal process is still in its early stages. Both defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Murder cases involving multiple suspects can take months or even years to resolve as investigators continue collecting evidence, attorneys review discovery materials, and courts schedule hearings and trials.

What Happens Next?

Pena will remain in custody without bail as the murder case moves through Essex County Superior Court. Meanwhile, proceedings continue for Mota, who remains charged in connection with the same homicide.

Prosecutors have not ruled out the possibility of additional developments as the investigation continues.

As the court process unfolds, investigators are expected to present evidence outlining the alleged roles of each defendant and the circumstances surrounding Delrosario’s death. The case remains one of the most closely watched homicide prosecutions currently pending in Essex County.

For now, authorities say the investigation remains active, and further information may be released through future court filings and hearings.