LYNN, MA – A routine traffic stop on Western Avenue in Lynn by Trooper Carlo Mastromattei of the Massachusetts State Police Community Action Team (CAT) for Troop A resulted in the arrest of three individuals, including a juvenile, on Monday afternoon, January 29, 2024. The patrol was part of a strategic response to a recent spate of gang-related violence, including a double homicide and numerous shootings in the area.
Trooper Mastromattei initiated the stop after noticing a Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV without a front license plate. Upon interaction with the driver, identified as 21-year-old Edixon Mejia of Chelsea, and further inspection of the vehicle, an open bottle of Patron tequila was observed at the feet of one of the two male passengers in the rear seats, both of whom were under the legal drinking age.
After obtaining consent from Mejia to search the vehicle, Troopers discovered three spring-assisted knives in violation of local and state laws. A pat frisk of the passengers led to the discovery of a loaded .22 caliber handgun with a defaced serial number in possession of a 16-year-old juvenile. The three occupants, including 18-year-old Walter Ramirez Estuban of Chelsea, were unable to produce a firearm license and were subsequently arrested and transported to the Revere Barracks.