In the quiet neighborhood of Nonantum, Massachusetts, a chilling discovery was made by a worried neighbor. An elderly couple and the wife’s mother were found brutally murdered in their home on Sunday, June 25th.
Their absence from the regular Sunday mass sparked concern among neighbors, who described the couple’s routine as clockwork. This deviation prompted a close neighbor to check on them, leading to the ghastly discovery. The elderly couple, known for their strong bond, had recently marked their 50th wedding anniversary and were going to celebrate it at the church that day after Mass.
Community members remember Bruno D’Amore, 74, and Jill D’Amore, 73, both of Italian heritage, as warm-hearted and generous individuals. Tragically, Jill’s 97-year-old mother, Lucia Arpino, also fell prey to the brutal assault.
According to police, the victims bore signs of severe blunt-force trauma and stab wounds. There were clear indicators of forced entry into their usually serene and secure residence.
The D’Amore family, well-known regulars at the local Our Lady Help of Christians Church, had plans to renew their wedding vows. Their friend and retired fire department lieutenant, Jim Sbordone, fondly recalled, “These were fantastic Italian people who wouldn’t harm a fly.” He expressed his shock, stating such horrific incidents were a stark contrast to the peaceful nature of their neighborhood.
A nearby home surveillance video captured a shirtless and shoeless man, stumbling around near the D’Amores’ residence around 5:30 a.m. Identified as Christopher Ferguson, 41, his footprints matched those discovered at the crime scene.
Ferguson was subsequently apprehended at the home he shared with his sister and was arrested on Monday. Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan stated that Ferguson had no known connections with the victims. Despite pleading not guilty to Jill D’Amore’s murder in court on Tuesday, Ferguson also faces two counts of assault and one count of burglary. He may face additional charges pending the completion of autopsies on Bruno D’Amore and Lucia Arpino.
Currently held without bail, Ferguson’s hearing is scheduled for July 25.
