Medford Man Found Guilty for 2007 Murder

– Allison Goldsberry

A Medford man was found guilty of first degree murder and other charges in connection with a 2007 murder, according to information released by Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan.

Following an eight day jury trial in Middlesex Superior Court, Wally Jacques Simon, 36, of Medford, was found guilty for the murder of Christopher Barbaro, 50, and the shooting of his brother, Bryan Barbaro, 48, both of Winchester. The charges included murder, home invasion, armed robbery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury, and carrying a firearm without a license.

Simon broke into the Winchester home of Christopher and Bryan Barbaro early in the morning on October 24, 2007 and shot both brothers, mortally wounding Christopher. Simon, who knew both victims, entered the second floor apartment and stole some money. He first shot Christopher and then fired at his brother after he came downstairs from his third floor apartment following the commotion.

“This is a just resolution to a long, difficult legal process seeking to hold the defendant responsible for the murder of Christopher Barbaro,” said District Attorney Ryan. “The defendant broke into the victim’s home to commit a senseless robbery.”

Simon will be sentenced on October 18 by Middlesex Superior Court Judge Maynard Kirpalani.