Investigation Update: Teo Vernice Identified as Victim in Roxbury Homicide
ROXBURY, MA — The Boston Police Department has identified the victim in Thursday night’s fatal shooting in Roxbury as 21-year-old Teo Vernice of Hyde Park. The tragic incident unfolded shortly after 10:00 PM on June 19, 2025, when officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a 911 call reporting a person shot near 163 Ruthven Street.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers found Vernice lying outside a vehicle, suffering from a serious gunshot wound. According to preliminary findings, it appears that the shooting may have taken place inside the vehicle, which subsequently crashed at the scene. Boston EMS responded promptly and transported Vernice to a local hospital, but despite emergency medical efforts, he was later pronounced dead.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has confirmed that Vernice died from a gunshot wound, and his death is being treated as a homicide. The crash and the subsequent discovery of the victim outside the vehicle have added layers of complexity to the investigation, prompting a comprehensive forensic examination of the vehicle and surrounding area.
A Tragic Loss in the Community
Teo Vernice, just 21 years old, is remembered by friends and family as a young man with promise and potential. Those who knew him describe him as kind-hearted and ambitious, someone who aspired to build a better life. The devastating news has left the Hyde Park and Roxbury communities shaken, mourning the sudden and violent loss of a young life.
Local residents gathered Friday morning near Ruthven Street, lighting candles and leaving flowers at a growing memorial in Vernice’s honor. Emotions ran high as neighbors expressed their heartbreak and growing frustration over the continued gun violence plaguing their community.
Ongoing Investigation
The Boston Police Department Homicide Unit is leading the investigation and is actively seeking information that may shed light on the events leading to Vernice’s death. Authorities are exploring multiple leads, including possible surveillance footage from nearby buildings, witness testimonies, and forensic evidence recovered from the scene.
Investigators are also working to determine whether the shooting was a targeted act or the result of a broader altercation. At this time, no suspects have been arrested or publicly identified, and police are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Public Appeal for Information
In an effort to move the case forward, the BPD is appealing to the public for assistance. Those with any information—no matter how seemingly minor—are strongly encouraged to contact the Boston Police Homicide Unit at (617) 343-4470. Community members wishing to remain anonymous may do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or by texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).
Community Response
City officials and community leaders are once again calling for renewed focus on curbing gun violence, especially among youth. “We cannot become numb to the loss of life,” said a spokesperson for the mayor’s office. “Every life matters, and we are committed to working with law enforcement and community groups to bring justice for Teo Vernice and ensure that no more families have to endure this pain.”
As the investigation continues, the city of Boston grieves the loss of another young soul to senseless violence—hoping that justice and healing will follow swiftly in its wake.
