Latest News in Boston, MA

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Grand juror admits leaking information in Karen Read case

A grand juror in the Karen Read case, Jessica Leslie, pleaded guilty to leaking confidential information from the proceedings. She faces a one-day sentence, already served, along with 24 months of supervised release. The breach occurred while Read was acquitted of serious charges related to her boyfriend's death.

Fall River fire investigation likely to look at sprinkler performance

Investigators will scrutinize the sprinkler system's performance in a deadly Massachusetts fire that claimed nine lives. Fire protection engineer Robert Solomon expressed surprise that sprinklers were present, as they typically prevent such fatalities. The inquiry will also assess fire alarms, resident health issues, staff training, and building design.

Man accused of selling crack cocaine to Haverhill man hour before death, police say

A Haverhill man died after a struggle with police shortly after allegedly purchasing crack cocaine. Joseph Hurley, 43, faces charges for selling drugs to Francis Gigliotti, who exhibited erratic behavior before becoming unresponsive during police intervention. Seven officers are on paid administrative leave while an investigation continues.

Man shot, killed during armed standoff with Fall River officers, police say

A man in Fall River, Massachusetts, was shot and killed during an armed standoff with police while experiencing a mental health crisis. Family members reported that Domonick Knight, 38, was armed and intended to harm himself. Despite attempts by a Crisis Negotiator to communicate, the situation escalated, resulting in Knight firing at police, who returned fire.

Cummins Highway Construction Update July 2025

Construction on Cummins Highway will proceed from July 7 to July 25, with work including sidewalk installation and curb improvements. Planned activities will focus on areas from Hebron Street to Weybosset Street, subject to weather conditions. Residents should prepare for potential disruptions as crews advance their work.

Mayor Wu Declares Heat Emergency July 16 Through July 18

Mayor Michelle Wu declared a heat emergency in Boston from July 16 to July 18 due to extreme temperatures forecasted to reach 97 degrees. The City will open Cooling Centers and other resources to help residents cope with the heat, emphasizing the safety of vulnerable populations. Residents are urged to stay hydrated and check on neighbors during this period.

Sweating for Science

SPH researchers in Boston deployed sensors to monitor heat exposure among vulnerable residents during the summer heat. Led by Beverly Ge, a PhD student, the project aligns with the City of Boston's extreme heat action plan for childcare providers.

Policy QA with the Office of Early Childhood

Boston implements a resiliency plan to combat extreme heat, focusing on protecting vulnerable groups, particularly young children. Paula Gaviria Villarreal from the Office of Early Childhood outlines new initiatives aimed at keeping children cool during hotter summers. Local governments are encouraged to adopt similar measures.

A revolutionary real estate listing John Hancocks former Boston home is up for grabs

John Hancock’s historic Boston home, the Ebenezer Hancock House, has returned to the market after 50 years. Built in 1767, the property is assessed at $1.6 million and is the only remaining site linked to Hancock in Boston. The realtor seeks an owner who appreciates the building's history and potential mixed-use opportunities.

Karen Read attorney says Boston officers credibility irreparably compromised

Karen Read's attorney has called for Boston Police Officer Kelly Dever to be added to the department's Brady list, citing her "irreparably compromised" credibility after her combative testimony in Read's retrial. Dever previously claimed to have experienced a "false memory" regarding critical evidence, prompting concerns about her reliability in other cases. Read was acquitted of murder and manslaughter but convicted of drunk driving.

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