LYNN — A 15-year-old suspect facing a murder charge in connection with the fatal stabbing of another teenager outside a convenience store Tuesday evening was ordered held without bail during his arraignment in Lynn District Court.
Iram Allen Jr., of Lynn, was arraigned as an adult Wednesday afternoon, as members of his family looked on.
Family members of the 17-year-old victim, Daniel Marquez Santeliz, of Lynn, were present in the courtroom as well, and were visibly emotional during the arraignment.
Allen pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. He was ordered to have no contact with witnesses.
Allen was one of two suspects arrested in connection with the stabbing Tuesday, said Essex District Attorney Paul Tucker and Police Chief Chris Reddy in a joint statement.
The other suspect, a juvenile who was not identified because of his age, was arraigned Wednesday and charged with possession of a dangerous weapon. He was released into the custody of a parent.
The stabbing unfolded at the Alpha Convenience Store at 1 Freeman Square at about 6 p.m. Tuesday.
A short time later, Marquez Santeliz was brought to a nearby fire station, the statement said. He was then taken to Salem Hospital, where he died from his wounds.
Allen will return to court on Sept. 20.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Evonne Alvarez released a statement in response to Tuesday’s incident.
“We are saddened to learn about the violent act and loss of life that occurred on Tuesday night,” the statement reads. “Student and staff safety is a primary concern for the Lynn Public Schools and Lynn English High School. The district and school are acting immediately with legal counsel to ensure school safety for all.”
Mayor Jared Nicholson, in a statement Tuesday evening, said his heart broke for Marquez Santeliz’s family and for the entire community reeling from a “senseless act of violence.”
“I am grateful to the Lynn Police Department that the suspects are in custody. We are here to support the victim’s family and community members who have been impacted and are actively working to prevent further violence. Our students starting a new school year in a few weeks should know that their safety is of primary concern to all of us,” he said. “I join the entire city in mourning the loss of this young person and in our resolve against all forms of violence.”
The incident remains under investigation by the State Police Detective Unit assigned to Tucker’s office and detectives from the Lynn Police Department, the statement said.
