In the early morning hours of November 28, 2021, the life of 22-year-old Charleen Figueroa was tragically cut short in Springfield, Massachusetts. Known to her loved ones as "Chyna," she was discovered unresponsive in the driver's seat of a car on West Alvord Street, suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite the response of police, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
The incident was part of a larger gun battle that also resulted in the death of 32-year-old Chad Alexander, who was shot outside a nearby home and died from his injuries on December 11, 2021.
Charleen, born on September 28, 1999, was educated in the Springfield school system and was a hardworking employee at Racing Mart. Described as having a unique and wild spirit, she was known for being loving, caring, and fiercely loyal. She had a passion for doing hair and makeup and was an avid animal lover. Her vibrant personality and jokes could brighten anyone's day, making her the life of the party.
The investigation into the double homicide led to the arrest of Victor Oquendo of Belchertown in July 2022. He was charged with murder in connection with Charleen's death, along with several other firearm-related offenses.
Following a trial, a jury found Victor Oquendo not guilty of the murder of Charleen Figueroa. However, he was found guilty of the first-degree murder of Chad Alexander. For the murder conviction and other charges, Oquendo was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
