As the investigation into the alleged murder of her parents by 24-year-old Jessica Cavallaro continued into a second day on Friday, Bedford Police Chief John Fisher summarized the overall scenario concisely: “It’s tremendously sad.”
And he praised “the professionalism of the people involved working through what is a tragic and sad situation.”
Cavallaro was arrested Thursday morning after police were called to 10 Washington Street. According to police reports, her parents had arrived to take her to breakfast. Mark Cavallaro and Thelma Tatten, both 56, of Genetti Street in Bedford were shot as they sat in their car.
The suspect was arraigned late in the day in Concord District Court on two counts of murder, two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury, and illegal possession of a firearm. Cavallaro was ordered held without bail.
“We met first thing this morning with members of the State Police Detective Unit attached to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office,” Fisher said. “It’s a coordinated effort. We’re interviewing more people today.”
Fisher said the remainder of Thursday focused not only on the investigation, but also “a number of other serious calls.” He said some members of the overnight shift were called back while some officers on the evening shift were asked to come in early. And there were more than a dozen State Police investigators.
Additionally, backup was accepted from the Billerica and Lexington departments and offered by Burlington and Carlisle.
“We have excellent relations with our surrounding departments,” Fisher said, adding, “I’ll be doing my thank-you notes tonight.”
Regarding the firearms charge, Fisher said, “Obviously the district attorney and I feel very strongly about unsecured firearms.” Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan specifically mentioned that in her press conference held on the street late Thursday morning.
Fisher also noted, “The Bedford Fire Department rendered aid and stayed in case anything else was needed.” Fire Chief James Bailey, he said, “was with me the entire time.”
Firefighters helped with neighborhood canvassing, he added. Fisher also lauded the work of the public safety dispatchers.
“From an emergency management situation, our community did well,” Fisher said. “There can be a lot of hurt and uneasiness, and I really appreciate everyone’s efforts.”
Loading ...
I hope some sort of counseling for anyone may need it is offered.