Worcester man facing murder charges in death of 29-year-old man — Police car - File photo

WORCESTER, MA – The Worcester County District Attorney’s Office has announced the indictment of 25-year-old Jose Ortiz Maldonado for the murder of 29-year-old Darilton Matias, which occurred in November 2023. The incident took place on Grand Street in Worcester, leading to a wide-ranging indictment that includes charges beyond murder.

Maldonado faces several severe charges, including kidnapping, strangulation, two counts of armed assault with intent to murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery on a family or household member, possession of a firearm without a license, possession of ammunition without an FID card, and discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling.

The tragic event unfolded on November 5, 2023, at approximately 1:18 a.m., when Worcester Police were dispatched to Grand Street following reports of gunshots. Upon arrival, officers discovered Matias with a gunshot wound. Despite immediate medical aid provided at the scene and subsequent transport to a local hospital, Matias was pronounced dead.

Maldonado was arrested on November 8, following the incident, and was arraigned in Worcester Central District Court on related charges. He was deemed dangerous and held for 120 days, the maximum detention period allowed under Massachusetts law, before being set a $50,000 cash bail. He remains in custody.

This case continues to develop, and further legal proceedings are expected as the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office progresses with the prosecution.

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Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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