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Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan announces that JUANITA LAUREANO, 35 of Lowell has been charged with murder in connection with the fatal stabbing of Efrain Ruiz, 34 that occurred on July 8, 2020 in Lowell. JOSE RIOS, 47 has been charged with assault and battery in connection with the assault of Mr. Ruiz.
The preliminary investigation by the State Police Detective Unit for Middlesex County and Lowell Police indicates that around 11 p.m. on that date RIOS was involved in a fistfight with the victim, Mr. Ruiz. During the fight LAUREANO allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Mr. Ruiz in the back. After the alleged assault the victim walked to Lemon Tree Food Shops on Appleton Street seeking assistance. When police arrived at the scene they located Mr. Ruiz suffering from apparent stab wounds. He was transported to Lowell General Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
LAUREANO was subsequently arrested on July 11 in the area of Fleming Street in Lowell as a fugitive from justice in connection with outstanding warrants from Arizona; as a result of the ongoing investigation today she was charged with murder. On July 11 RIOS was arrested In the same area.
Both defendants were to be arraigned today in Lowell District Court.
