Nathaniel Olivo, a 19-year-old Hispanic male, was fatally shot in the Forest Park neighborhood of Springfield, Massachusetts, on the evening of Wednesday, November 20, 2019. The shooting occurred on Glendell Street, and Olivo was transported to Baystate Medical Center, where he died from his injuries, surrounded by his family. His death marked the 19th homicide in the city that year.
In the days following the shooting, a vigil held in Olivo's memory on Glendell Terrace was disrupted by
violence, leading to the removal of the memorial. Springfield police, who were monitoring the vigil due to concerns about potential gang activity, noticed a suspicious vehicle. A subsequent traffic stop resulted in the arrest of five men and the seizure of two illegal firearms, one of which was loaded with 15 rounds. The arrested individuals were identified as Abdi Dar Hussein, 27; Victor Contreras, 19; Matthew Pon, 25; Lewis Andino, 23; and Nathaniel Negron, 23. All five were charged with carrying a loaded firearm without a license.
While the arrests at the vigil were made in connection to illegal firearms, the investigation into Nathaniel Olivo's murder continued. Law enforcement officials did not immediately announce any suspects directly responsible for his death. The Hampden District Attorney's office led the investigation into the homicide. The community mourned the loss of Olivo, who was remembered by loved ones.
