Worcester, Massachusetts – Authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Dejan D. Belnavis, a Worcester man wanted in connection with the shooting of a mother and her 11-year-old daughter in an SUV on Englewood Avenue. Belnavis, 27, faces charges of armed assault with intent to murder and carrying a firearm without a license. The victims have been identified as Chasity Nunez and her daughter, Zella Nunez.
Police allege that Belnavis and another individual were captured on surveillance footage opening fire on the SUV on Tuesday afternoon. Another man has been arrested in connection with the homicide, although details about that arrest remain undisclosed at this time.
According to court documents, video footage shows the assailants approaching the victims’ vehicle and firing shots before fleeing in the direction of a white sedan. The sedan was later traced back to Belnavis, who had borrowed the vehicle for approximately a year. Cellphone records place Belnavis at the scene of the shooting on Englewood Avenue.
Authorities were able to track the stolen sedan to Hartford, Connecticut, using the vehicle’s connected car system. Belnavis, who has a history of firearm charges, does not possess a valid license to carry. City officials, including the police chief, mayor, and school superintendent, have condemned the violence and offered condolences to the victims’ family and friends.
City Council Vice Chairman Khrystian E. King expressed concern about potential repercussions following the tragic incident. He emphasized the impact of the killings on the community and stressed the importance of bringing the perpetrators to justice. The loss of Chasity and Zella Nunez has deeply affected many in Worcester, prompting calls for healing and support for those mourning the victims.