Cody Smith Arraigned for Lynn Murder

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LYNN, Mass. – August 24, 2026 – Cody Smith, 31, of Lynn, was arraigned for murder today in Lynn District Court for the death of Rafael Gonzalez Cruz, 52, of Fitchburg, Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker confirms. Lynn Police, responding to a call at the 200 block of South Common Street at approximately 6:18 a.m. on Thursday, August 6, found Cruz with apparent sharp force trauma, and pronounced him deceased on scene.

Before the Hon. Leo Fama in Lynn District Court today, Smith pleaded not guilty and was ordered held without bail. Assistant District Attorney Caitlin Shugrue is prosecuting the case on behalf of the Commonwealth. Smith was represented by attorney Thomas Burke. Smith is scheduled to return to court for a probable cause hearing on September 30.

The incident was investigated by the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to Tucker’s office, the Lynn Police Department, and the Massachusetts Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

All suspects and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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*Note: This release was updated on 8/25/26 to include the nature of the deceased’s fatal injuries and the street location.

MEDIA CONTACT

Michael Keefe-Feldman

E: Michael.Keefe-Feldman@mass.gov

Office: 978-745-6610

Cell: 781-771-9779