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Three elderly residents of Nonantum, in Newton, were reported dead from apparent stab wounds and blunt trauma on Sunday, June 26 around 10:14 a.m., as reported by Daily Voice.
Signs of forced entry were found at the residence.
In an update on Monday, June 26, Newton Police stated that neighborhood patrols would be supplemented with extra officers to ensure the area's safety.
"As we mourn the victims of this senseless and violent tragedy we ask all members of our community to remain alert and vigilant," read the statement.
Many Newton residents took to Facebook to discuss the stabbings, some of whom expressed fear of the implications for their community.
"Very unnerving," wrote one Facebook commenter on a post made by the Newton Police Department. "You never think it would happen in your neighborhood."
"So this person who did this is on the loose?!," wrote another.
Some shared opinions on the murderer's motivation.
"They were expected at church, so could be a botched break-in that took a very tragic turn," wrote one commenter.
Another break-in was reported on Brookside Avenue, about a half-mile from the murder scene, earlier the same day. Investigators have not yet determined if the two incidents are connected.
Some Facebook commenters discussed the Newton Police Department's funding or their response.
"This is tragic," wrote a commenter on a Massachusetts State Police Facebook post. "Police need to be able to do their jobs."
"Newton police were as guilty as anyone," wrote a commenter on the Newton Police Department's Monday update. "They knew this guy. Knew he was robbing homes."
Among the comments were frequent expressions of grief or sympathy.
"My heart breaks for the victims and their families," reads one such comment on a state police Facebook post. "Hoping the perpetrator(s) are discovered and brought to justice as soon as possible."
As of the last police update, the victims have not been identified nor have any arrests been made.
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