Father Fatally Shot in Shrewsbury Ma After Walking Son to School, Confronting Graffiti Vandal

A man was fatally shot Thursday morning in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, after confronting someone spray-painting a bridge, according to authorities.

Police said they received a 911 call just before 9 a.m. about a dispute on a bridge over Jordan Pond. Worcester District Attorney Joe Early reported that the victim, 57-year-old Kevin Doherty, had just walked his 6-year-old son to Coolidge Elementary School and was heading back when he saw a man painting graffiti on the bridge. Doherty took photos of the vandalism, which led to a confrontation, and then called 911.

During the call, gunshots were heard. “The operator was on the line with the victim when the shots rang out,” said Shrewsbury Police Chief Kevin Anderson. Responding officers found Doherty with multiple gunshot wounds; he was taken to a hospital but did not survive.

Police launched a massive search for the suspect, initially describing him as “armed and dangerous.” Surveillance footage showed the suspect fleeing to a home on Edgewater Avenue that was covered in graffiti with messages like “Free Palestine” and “Free Congo.” Heavily armed officers surrounded the residence, using drones and even a battering ram during the operation.

The suspect, later identified as 26-year-old Snehal Srivastava, was eventually arrested without further violence. Authorities said he is known to police and had a previous case in 2022 that was dismissed. Neighbors reported prior issues with Srivastava, including reckless driving and confrontations, and had long complained about graffiti on his property.

Coolidge Elementary, where Doherty’s son is a student, was secured during the incident. No students or staff were harmed. School officials expressed deep condolences, calling it a “senseless act of violence.” Principal Tiffany Ostrander and Superintendent Joe Sawyer both said the district will support the family during this tragic time.

Thursday was the first day of school for pre-K and kindergarten students at Coolidge Elementary.

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#Graffiti #Vandalism #Dispatcher