An 83-year-old Massachusetts man was arrested after physically assaulting another senior citizen, leading to the 76-year-old victim’s death, the Essex District Attorney’s Office said.
Police responded to a call at the Oxford Rehabilitation & Health Care Center, also known as Oxford Manor, in Haverhill around 7:37 p.m. on Saturday about an altercation involving two patients. When they arrived, officers discovered the 76-year-old suffering from injuries believed to be the result of a physical assault.
He was soon transported to a local hospital and was pronounced dead. Authorities have not yet identified the victim.
Jose Veguilla, 83, was arrested and also taken to the hospital to undergo an evaluation, according to the district attorney. However, officials did not specify whether the evaluation was physical or mental. The district attorney indicated that he is expected to be arraigned on Monday, but it’s unclear whether the arraignment will happen at the hospital or in a courtroom.
“The Oxford’s heart goes out to the families of those involved in last night’s incident,” a statement from the facility read. “Our center is making additional support services available to our staff and residents. The Oxford Center and staff are working with the Haverhill and State Police Departments in their investigation. Based on our initial internal investigation, our staff acted quickly and appropriately in the matter; we are unable to comment further or provide additional details.”
