2 Charged In Connection With Fatal Stabbing In Lowell

LOWELL, MA– Two people were charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of a man who stumbled into a convenience store last week asking for help after a fight.

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Lowell Police Superintendent Kelly Richardson confirmed that Juanita Laureano, 35 of Lowell was charged with murder in connection with the fatal stabbing of Efrain Ruiz, 34 on July 8. Jose Rios, 47 was charged with assault and battery in connection with the assault of Ruiz.

According to investigators, around 11 p.m. that night Rios got into a fistfight with the Ruiz. During the fight, Laureano pulled out a knife and stabbed Ruiz in the back. Ruiz walked into the Lemon Tree Food Shops on Appleton Street asking for help. When police arrived, they saw he had several stab wounds and had him transported to Lowell General Hospital. He didn't make it.

Laureano was arrested on July 11 in the area of Fleming Street in Lowell as a fugitive from justice in connection with outstanding warrants from Arizona. She was charged with murder on July 13. Rios was arrested and charged on July 11 in the same area.

Both were set to be arraigned July 13 in Lowell District Court.

Previously: Police, DA Investigate Fatal Stabbing In Lowell