Press Release  Lawrence Man Convicted of 2nd Degree Murder

Salem, Massachusetts — An Essex Superior Court jury found Ismael Calixto, 20, guilty of murder in the 2^nd degree today in Salem Superior Court following a two and half week trial.  The defendant shot and killed Richard “Chi-chi” Bonilla, 18, of Lowell, in the early morning hours of November 4, 2012 on the 400 block of Broadway in Lawrence.  Judge David Lowy sentenced him to 15 years to life in prison. 

Essex Assistant District Attorney Christina Ronan introduced evidence that proved that the defendant sprayed bullets into the AutoZone parking lot located across the street from 11 Broadway Avenue where the victim had been attending a party.  The defendant then shot Mr. Bonilla in the back of the head as Bonilla was running away from him.  An argument started when 3 women were denied access to the party which ended in violence.

ADA Ronan recommended a sentence of 20 years to life given that the defendant was in DYS custody on gun charges at the time of the shooting.  “He was supposed to be home on a curfew when he shot the victim in the back of the head,” Ronan said.

“This was a senseless act of violence that took a young man’s life and shattered the lives of his family and friends,” District Attorney Blodgett said.  “The defendant acted with utter disregard for Mr. Bonilla’s life or anyone nearby that night when he emptied his gun into the street.” 

ADA Ronan was second seated by ADA James Gubitose.  Ronan thanked Massachusetts State Police Sargent Tony Schena and Trooper Steve Buccheri as well as Lawrence Police officer Brian Voisine, and Lt. Michael McCarthy for their work on the investigation.  Essex Victim Witness Advocate Jennifer Capone provided assistance and support to the victim’s family.

Calixto was represented by Attorney Jeffrey Karp.

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