Discovery of Missing 16-Year-Old's Body Turns to Homicide Investigation

BOSTON, MA — After a passerby discovered the body of a missing 16-year-old in Belle Isle Marsh earlier this month, the Suffolk County District Attorney's office announced Thursday it is opening a homicide investigation into the boy's death.

The East Boston teen was Carlos Villatoro-Nunez, 16, found near the marshland's Bennington Street entrance on Dec. 9. He had been reported missing by family almost a month earlier.

His body was already decomposing when it was discovered, complicating the death investigation, the DA's office said. However, authorities now believe he was stabbed to death, details that echo the recent death another teen whose body was discovered with stab wounds on Christmas Eve in East Boston.

State Police detectives will lead the newly opened homicide investigation, sharing information with the Boston Police Homicide Unit.

"Investigators do not believe Villatoro-Nunez’ death was random," a press release said.

Anyone with information is urged to come forward. The Suffolk County DA's office also issued a reminder to potential tipsters that the office makes extensive use of the state’s Witness Protection Program to keep witnesses and their families safe.

Anyone with knowledge of Villatoro-Nunez’ death or the circumstances surrounding it is asked to contact the Suffolk County State Police Detective Unit at 617-727-8817.

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Body Found in Belle Isle Marsh Identified As Missing Teen

Photo of Belle Isle Marsh by Alcinoe used under Public Domain