Press Release  Lawrence Man Held Without Bail in Murder of DPW Worker

Lawrence, Massachusetts — A Lawrence man was ordered held without bail at his arraignment on murder charges in connection with the shooting death of Lawrence Department of Public Works employee Marcos “Tony” Antonio Ruiz. 

Ariel Toribio, 20, was arraigned for murder this morning in Lawrence District Court.  Judge Lynn Rooney ordered him held without bail.  The case is scheduled for a probable cause hearing on March 27, 2020.

Essex Assistant District Attorney Kelleen Forlizzi represented the Commonwealth.  Attorney John Apruzzese represented the defendant, who is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Mr. Toribio was arrested on Friday afternoon by Lawrence Police and State Police assigned to the Essex County District Attorney’s office.

Mr. Ruiz, 52, of Methuen, was shot and killed as he filled potholes for the city at the intersection of Andover and Clifton Streets on January 15.  Investigators do not believe Ruiz was the intended target of the shooting.

###