Stepson Arraigned on Murder Charge for Death of Lowell Woman

LOWELL—A Lawrence man has been arraigned on murder charges in connection with the stabbing death of his stepmother, Angela Aponte, 60, Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan informed the public today.

Jorge Aponte, 47, of Lawrence, was arraigned in Lowell Superior Court on charges of murder in the first degree and armed robbery.  Middlesex Superior Court Judge Richard Tucker ordered the defendant held without bail.

His next court date is July 11 for a pre-trial hearing.

According to authorities, on Saturday, March 9 at approximately 9:55 a.m., Lowell Fire and Police responded to 566 Market Street for a report of smoke coming from an apartment. Upon arrival, police discovered smoke coming from the stove in the apartment and a female victim with obvious injuries.  The victim was transported to Lowell General Hospital where she was later pronounced dead.  Lowell Police and State Police assigned to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office Detectives Unit began an immediate investigation into the circumstances of the victim’s death. 

An autopsy was conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (ME).  The ME ruled the victim’s death a homicide caused by sharp force wounds to the neck.  The ME also observed that the victim had bruising to the neck consistent with choking and a broken rib.

Through the investigation, which included interviews with witnesses and an examination of evidence, authorities allege that the defendant came to the victim’s home on the morning of March 9 and stabbed her.

These charges are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The prosecutor assigned to the case is Assistant District Attorney Cara Krysil.  The Victim Witness Advocate is Dora Quiroz.