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    HomeCrime NewsA Family Torn Apart: The Unbelievable Crimes That Shook West Brookfield

    A Family Torn Apart: The Unbelievable Crimes That Shook West Brookfield

    A Massachusetts man has been sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison after being found guilty of a horrifying crime—killing his cousin’s wife and her three young children before setting their home on fire. He even tried to blame the brutal murders on the infamous MS-13 gang.

    Mathew Locke, a 38-year-old from Massachusetts, was handed four consecutive life sentences—one for each victim—on Thursday. He was convicted last month of first-degree murder in the deaths of Sara Bermudez, 38, and her children: Madison, 8, James, 6, and Michael, just 2 years old. Prosecutors said Locke’s crimes involved deliberate planning, extreme cruelty, and additional felony charges, including armed burglary, aggravated rape, and arson.

    Moses Bermudez, Sara’s husband and Locke’s cousin, didn’t hold back during the sentencing. Speaking in court, he told the judge, “There’s a special place in hell for people that do things like this.”

    The devastating incident happened on February 28, 2018, in West Brookfield, Massachusetts. Locke broke into the family’s home, killed Sara and her children, and then poured diesel fuel over their bodies and the room before lighting it on fire. The next day, police performing a welfare check found the victims’ bodies in an upstairs bedroom. What they uncovered left everyone shaken.

    Investigators connected Locke to the crime through DNA evidence, including samples found on Sara and her young daughter, as well as other clues collected at the scene. Despite the mounting evidence, Locke told a bizarre story, trying to shift the blame onto the MS-13 gang. He claimed that his cousin, Moses, had warned him to watch the news because “anyone associated with MS-13 was going to get hurt and die.”

    This wild claim didn’t hold up. Both Moses and another person Locke mentioned denied ever saying anything about MS-13. Prosecutors said Locke likely tried to create this narrative because Sara was from El Salvador, where the gang originated.

    Locke’s past also painted a grim picture. Prosecutors revealed he had a history of domestic violence and arson, adding to the shock and horror surrounding this case.

    During the trial, Worcester County District Attorney Joe Early called the crime “one of the most heinous” his office had ever seen. Assistant District Attorney Terry McLaughlin described how Locke poured fuel over the victims before setting the house ablaze, a detail that deeply unsettled the courtroom.

    Locke’s attempts to dodge responsibility by fabricating gang involvement failed to sway the jury, who ultimately delivered justice for the Bermudez family. While no sentence can bring back Sara and her children, Locke’s life in prison ensures he will never harm another innocent person again.

    Eric Ogan
    Eric Oganhttps://theshoppersweekly.com/
    Eric Ogan is a dedicated journalist and news anchor recognized for his insightful reporting and commitment to delivering impactful stories. With a passion for uncovering the truth and connecting with audiences, he brings clarity and depth to his work. Eric’s approachable yet professional style has made him a trusted voice in the world of media.

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