Kennett Square Man Charged With Murder After Attempted Carjacking

Javier Rivera, 33, of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and related offenses after allegedly fatally stabbing a 69-year-old man during an attempted car theft on August 10. The victim confronted Rivera as he tried to steal a BMW from the victim's driveway, leading to an argument and a chase before Rivera stabbed the man in the torso and neck, causing his death. Rivera then fled the scene, stealing multiple vehicles including a Honda Accord and a Honda CR-V, and broke into a home in West Chester before returning to his residence where he was apprehended by police. At the time of arrest, Rivera was found wearing clothes matching witness descriptions, with a cut on his palm and what appeared to be dried blood on his shoes and shirt. Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe described the incident as senseless violence that shattered the quiet community, while law enforcement praised the coordinated efforts leading to Rivera's quick capture. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to contact Chester County Detectives.