Worcester Man Convicted Second-Degree Murder Child Endangerment

Leroy L. Thompson Jr., 30, of Worcester, was convicted of second-degree murder and reckless endangerment of a child for the 2020 shooting death of Joshua Lopez, 24. The shooting occurred on July 5, 2020, while Lopez was seated in the backseat of a vehicle with a minor child present, following an argument over a restaurant bill. Lopez succumbed to his injuries the next day. The verdict was reached after a trial in Worcester County Superior Court, with sentencing scheduled for September 24. Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. and Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier praised the efforts of law enforcement and prosecutors involved in securing justice for the victim and his family. The case has drawn significant community attention due to the circumstances and presence of a child during the incident.