Arrest Made in Fatal Shooting of Stoughton High School Student
Police in Massachusetts have taken a 16-year-old boy into custody in connection with a shooting that occurred over a year ago, resulting in the death of a promising high school student and leaving another injured. The suspect was arrested on Friday and faces charges for the killing of Christian Cousins, a 17-year-old student from Stoughton High School who was murdered on July 5, 2024.
Details of the Tragic Incident and Investigation
The arrest comes 16 months after police officers responded to the area of Gladeside Avenue and Donwood Terrace. There, they discovered two victims inside a vehicle, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims were students of Stoughton and were rushed to the hospital. Tragically, Christian Cousins did not survive his injuries. This incident was part of a violent spree that saw seven people shot in Boston within a 12-hour span.
The 16-year-old suspect was apprehended on a warrant issued by Suffolk Superior Court. He has been charged with murder and using a firearm in the commission of a felony. Additional charges include assault and battery attempt with a firearm and carrying a gun without a license. He is expected to be arraigned in Suffolk Superior Court. Investigators have stated they do not believe this was a random attack, though the relationship between the suspect and Cousins, as well as the motive, remain under investigation.
A Legacy of Ambition and Community Remembrance
The community continues to mourn the loss of Christian Cousins, who was remembered by his family as an aspiring entrepreneur who inspired others to 'strive for excellence'. His mother, Dr. Shalair Armstrong-Cousins, described him as no ordinary teenager, but an accomplished young man who managed businesses and embarked on new ventures with a clear vision to make a meaningful impact.
In his honour, The Christian Cousins Entrepreneurial Endowment Fund was established. This initiative supports students who share Christian's determination, drive, and entrepreneurial spirit, and has already raised more than $10,000. At what would have been his graduation, Stoughton High School held a moment of silence to pay tribute to his memory.
The incident remains an active investigation as authorities work to uncover the full circumstances leading to the tragic shooting.
