Jamaica Plain Man Indicted for Fatal Shooting
Cerrone Wilcox Buford faces murder charges following a fatal incident in Mattapan Square.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Violence
A 19-year-old Jamaica Plain man has been indicted by a Suffolk County grand jury for the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Jose Dantes. The incident occurred in Mattapan Square after a backyard dispute escalated.
Why it matters
The indictment follows a violent confrontation that resulted in one death and four other individuals suffering gunshot wounds. Legal proceedings are now moving forward to address the severity of the charges.
Cerrone Wilcox Buford is held without bail at the South Bay jail following his indictment on September 25. He previously faced a $1 million bail during his initial arraignment at the Dorchester Municipal Court.
The players
Cerrone Wilcox Buford
He is a 19-year-old man from Jamaica Plain who has been indicted on murder charges.
Jose Dantes
He was a 26-year-old victim who died from a gunshot wound to the head.
Laquan Burris
He is one of three additional individuals facing criminal charges related to the shooting.
Javen Girault
He is one of three additional individuals facing criminal charges related to the shooting.
Mannice Mitchner
He is an individual who faces criminal charges but currently remains at large.
The details
During the June 27 incident, a backyard fight moved to the sidewalk at 1460 Blue Hill Avenue. Prosecutors allege that Wilcox Buford pulled a firearm from a bag and fired at least seven shots, striking Dantes and four other men.
Timeline
June 27, 2026: Jose Dantes was killed in a shooting.
July 10, 2026: Wilcox Buford was initially arraigned.
September 25, 2026: A grand jury indicted Wilcox Buford.
October 7, 2026: Wilcox Buford was arraigned on murder charges.
November 3, 2026: Pre-trial hearing for Wilcox Buford.
Legal Context
This case follows the enforcement patterns established by the Suffolk County District Attorney's gun violence reduction protocols. It highlights the local legal system's approach to processing felony firearms charges following high-casualty urban incidents.
The investigation remains active as authorities search for Mannice Mitchner, who is currently at large. Residents of the Mattapan area are encouraged to report information regarding the suspect to local law enforcement.
The takeaway
The case serves as a grim reminder of how quickly interpersonal conflicts can escalate when firearms are introduced. Residents are encouraged to prioritize de-escalation and notify authorities when witnessing potential violence in their neighborhoods.
What happens next
Cerrone Wilcox Buford is scheduled to appear for a pre-trial hearing on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on safety and criminal justice proceedings, visit Boston Violence.
