Nicholas Meuse ID’d As Suspect In Saturday Carver MA Double-Fatal Child Party Shooting

CARVER, MA. (THECOUNT) — Benjamin Cowart, of Brockton, Jalen Pina, of Middleboro, have been identified as the victims following a deadly shooting during a children’s birthday party Saturday night at the Saint John the Baptist Club in Carver, Massachusetts. Nicholas Meuse, of Plymouth, has been identified as the suspected shooter, according to the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office.

Police said 23-year-old Meuse was arrested and charged in connection with the fatal shooting that killed 27-year-old Cowart and 20-year-old Pina during a gathering at 53 Silva Street. Authorities said the incident unfolded at approximately 7:27 p.m. Saturday, when Carver Police began receiving multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired inside the private club.

When officers arrived on scene, they located four gunshot victims. Cowart was pronounced dead at the scene. Pina was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries despite lifesaving efforts by medical staff.

Two additional victims survived the shooting. A 28-year-old man was transported to Tufts Medical Center with injuries described as non-life-threatening. A 32-year-old man was taken to South Shore Hospital for treatment. Authorities have not released the names of the surviving victims.

Investigators said the shooting occurred while a children’s birthday party was taking place inside the club, which is known to host private events. Numerous adults and children were reportedly present at the time of the gunfire, though officials have not indicated whether any minors were physically injured.

Law enforcement officials said Meuse was located a short distance away from the club and taken into custody without further incident. He was arrested Saturday night and is being held pending arraignment.

The Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office said Meuse is scheduled to be arraigned in Wareham District Court on two counts of murder, armed assault with intent to murder, and multiple firearms-related charges. Prosecutors have not yet disclosed a possible motive or the relationship, if any, between the suspect and the victims.

Authorities continue to process the scene and interview witnesses. The investigation is being handled by the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office, Carver Police, and Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the DA’s office.

Officials have not released information about the firearm believed to have been used, nor have they said whether the shooting was targeted or spontaneous. Additional details are expected following Meuse’s arraignment.

The case remains under active investigation.

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