Fairhaven Stabbings Leads to Murder Indictment

By Gregg Miliote (District Attorney's Office)
Published 05/9/2008
Announcements & Press Releases

Grand Jury investigation has been completed

The Grand Jury investigation into the April 4, 2008 fatal stabbing of 30-year-old Joshua Fitzgerald and the non-fatal stabbings of Patrick Fitzgerald, 25, and Robert Williams, 35, has been completed. The incident occurred outside the VFW in Fairhaven during a hip hop show.

The Grand Jury yesterday returned indictments against Brandon Callender, 18, of 98 Beetle St., New Bedford, and Thomas Opozda, 20, of 311 Coffin Ave., New Bedford, in connection with the incident.

Mr. Callender was indicted on charges of murder, armed assault with intent to murder, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. It is alleged that Mr. Callender fatally stabbed Joshua Fitzgerald and also stabbed Patrick Fitzgerald.

Mr. Opozda was indicted on charges of murder, armed assault with intent to murder, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. It is alleged that Mr. Opozda was a joint venturer in the killing of Joshua Fitzgerald and also stabbed Robert Williams.

Assistant District Attorney Steve Gagne is prosecuting the case for the commonwealth. A Superior Court arraignment date for both defendants has yet to be scheduled.