March 9, 2025

Dear Chelsea Public Schools Community,

As many of you may have heard, a tragic incident occurred on Saturday evening around 8:30 p.m. on Stockton Street near Eastern Avenue. Two juveniles, both in their late teens, were attacked—one fatally. Juan Carlos Lemus, one of the male victims, was transported to CHA Everett, where he was later pronounced deceased. The second victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries, though I am not at liberty to release his name.

Juan Carlos attended Chelsea High School.  We, at Chelsea Public Schools, extend our deepest condolences and support to his family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. Social workers will be available at Chelsea High School this week to support students and staff through this tragedy.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time we have had to confront the violence impacting our community and our youth.  I want to remind everyone that this is not an issue confined to Chelsea. The violence we saw here is part of a broader societal problem—one that stems from a breakdown in how we value human life.

Our work, both inside and outside of the classroom, cannot be confined to academic lessons alone. We must also teach our young people the importance of respect, understanding, and empathy toward one another. We must stand united in our efforts to build a culture of care and support.

While moments like this leave us with deep sadness, they also remind us of the work we can still do together. We can help foster a community where kindness and understanding prevail, and where our youth can feel safe and valued. In the face of this tragedy, we have an opportunity to rally together, support one another, and continue building a future where violence has no place.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students and community.

Warmly,

Dr. Almi G. Abeyta
Superintendent
Chelsea Public Schools