A Haverhill man has been held without bail after his arraignment today on Murder charges in connection with a fatal stabbing early this morning, according to Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett and Haverhill Police Chief Alan DeNaro.
Evanda Jackson, 46, of Haverhill, pleaded not guilty at his arraignment today in Haverhill District Court on one count of Murder. Judge Patricia Dowling granted the Commonwealth’s request that he be held without bail.
Essex Assistant District Attorney Jessica Strasnick told the court that at approximately 3:48 this morning, Haverhill Police responded to numerous calls reporting a motor vehicle crash in the area of Boardman and Water Streets. They found a 21-year old Haverhill man, later identified as Izayah Cruz, suffering from a single stab wound to the chest. He was transported to Merrimack Valley Haverhill Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The victim’s brother was also in the vehicle. He told investigators that his brother had been involved in an altercation on Kimball Street. At some point during the confrontation, the defendant allegedly stabbed the victim once in the chest.
A probable cause hearing is scheduled for October 7, 2020 at 10:30 am via Zoom.
The defendant is represented by Attorney Robert Sheketoff and is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Carrie Kimball
Director of Communications
Essex District Attorney’s Office
