Medford Man Arrested in Connection with Stoneham Double Shooting

Updated 3:44PM Tuesday, July 9, 2013

– Allison Goldsberry

A Medford man was arrested on Sunday in connection with a Stoneham double shooting that killed one man and injured another, according to information released by Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Stoneham Police Chief James McIntyre.

Jessie Williams, 24, of Medford, and Eugene Tate, 19, of Malden, were arrested and charged with murder, armed assault with intent to murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, armed robbery, and illegal possession of a firearm.

Both men were arraigned Monday in Woburn District Court and pleaded not guilty. They were ordered held without bail and their next court date is August 12 for a probable cause hearing.

The double shooting happened just after midnight on Wednesday, July 3. According to authorities, a 28-year-old victim had arranged to sell drugs to Williams and Tate. The man asked Joseph Puopolo, 27, to accompany him because he was concerned he would be ripped off. Williams and Tate are accused of allegedly entering the victim’s Stoneham home, drawing their guns, and demanding drugs and money before shooting Puopolo and the 28-year-old victim.

Puopolo suffered from gunshot wounds to his chest and wrist. He was later pronounced dead at Lahey Clinic. The other victim was shot in the stomach and is in stable condition at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Witnesses and physical evidence led authorities to Williams and Tate, according to information released by DA Ryan’s office. After arrest warrants were issued, Williams was picked up in East Boston and Tate turned himself into Stoneham Police.