Cambridge police confirmed Tuesday that a third individual has been taken into custody in connection with the July 4 shooting death of Xavier Bautista, a 32‑year‑old employee of the Cambridge Department of Public Works. The arrest marks a significant milestone in a case that has been a top priority for the department since the tragedy.
Details of the latest arrest
Moises Pimentel, 23, of Boston, was arrested on charges of murder, carrying a firearm without a license, conspiracy, and evidence tampering. The Middlesex District Attorney’s Office and Cambridge police released the information ahead of Pimentel’s arraignment in Cambridge District Court, where a judge ordered him held without bail. Prosecutors said cell‑phone data placed Pimentel near the scene of the shooting and text messages obtained through a search warrant support the charges. He is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 22 for a probable‑cause hearing.
Earlier arrests and investigation progress
Last week, Boston resident Giovani Arroyo, 22, was arrested on similar charges of murder, unlicensed firearm possession, and conspiracy. Arroyo entered a not‑guilty plea and was also ordered held without bail. Earlier, on July 13, Rayquon Brown of Canton was arrested and charged with murder, unlicensed firearm possession, being an armed career criminal, and conspiracy to commit murder. Police allege Brown acted as a lookout during the confrontation that left Bautista dead around 4 a.m. on July 4.
According to investigators, Bautista was wearing his city work attire when masked men approached him as he left his home. After he was shot, the assailants fled in a white Dodge Ram pickup truck. Brown was linked to the vehicle and was observed holding an object consistent with a firearm, which he appeared to aim at one point.
Community response and police gratitude
Cambridge police posted a statement on Facebook thanking detectives, officers, law‑enforcement partners, and community members whose cooperation helped bring all three suspects into custody. “Our thoughts remain with Xavier’s family, friends and all those impacted by his loss,” the department wrote.
ShotSpotter technology debate
The shooting reignited discussion about Cambridge’s ShotSpotter acoustic gun‑fire detection system, which had been deactivated over privacy concerns. Some residents argued that the technology might have led to a faster response and potentially saved Bautista’s life. After public debate, city officials reinstated ShotSpotter last month, aiming to improve public safety while addressing privacy safeguards.
Ongoing investigation
Authorities continue to examine possible motives, though no direct connection between Bautista and any of the suspects has been established. The investigation remains active, and police have urged anyone with additional information to contact the Cambridge Police Department.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
