Neighbors want action after murder

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - 17-year-old Jose Colon was killed after he was shot in the head, chest and back inside Van Horn Park Tuesday evening.

The crime tape was a surprise Wednesday morning for some who use the park every day.

Leonard Rainville told 22News, “It's not always like this it's quiet and it's nice place to walk, nice place to be."

But, Denise Richardson who lives just steps away from where the crime happened says the park changes after the sun sets.

"During the day it's fine, you know, people walk their dogs and all the other stuff, but at night it's so dark and you can't see and you don't know if there are people out there," said Richardson.

She said she hopes the city will consider putting up more lights in the park and gates to keep people out after dark.

22News took her request to Mayor Domenic Sarno.

He said, “Those parks are technically closed but I will direct it to our director of Parks and Facilities Management and if it's something we can address and look into and if it's feasible, we will be more than happy to. Lighting is not only good for aesthetic quality it's also a public safety issue."

Springfield Police Sergeant John Delaney said detectives believe the victim may have been involved with gangs.

But who knew the victim have taken to facebook and the 22News website, mourning the loss of a boy who was also a son, brother and friend.

Those who didn't know him say the violence just has to stop.

Police would not comment on whether this murder was connected to the murder of 19-year-old Reality Walker who was shot less than a mile away.

There have been no arrests in either murder.