A Springfield, Massachusetts, man forced his way into his neighbor’s home, shooting and killing her, and his granddaughters, leaving one of them in critical condition, before turning the gun on himself, authorities said Tuesday. .
The Hampden District Attorney’s Office provided the update Tuesday, a day after they say Victor Nieves, 34, forced his way through the front door of his neighbor’s apartment in the multi-family home they shared and shot her. to the family.
The neighbor, identified as Kim Fairbanks, 52, and a dog were killed. Two girls, ages 12 and 10, were also shot. The 10-year-old girl was airlifted to Boston Children’s Hospital, where she remains in critical condition. The 12-year-old is at Baystate Medical Center in stable condition. Her younger brother, 5 years old, was physically unharmed. All three children are Fairbanks’ grandchildren, the district attorney said.
Prosecutors say Nieves shot himself after committing the violence against the family. Investigators did not offer a potential motive for the shooting.
District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni said Monday that investigators do not believe this was a random act and that there is no greater threat to the public. He added Tuesday: “This is unequivocally one of the most heinous and cowardly acts I have ever had to witness as a district attorney. My heart goes out to the parents of these children and the family and loved ones of Ms. Fairbanks As investigators, we will do everything we can to support this family as we move forward and close the criminal investigation.”
Police said most officers have not experienced a scene like this in their entire careers.
