Josef Guillen Convicted for 2021 Lawrence Murder of Jeffrey Ruiz

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALEM, Mass. – October 22, 2025 – Today, an Essex County jury found Josef Guillen, 23 of Lawrence, guilty of murder in the first degree of 21-year-old Jeffrey Ruiz of Lowell, Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker confirms. The Superior Court jury also found Guillen guilty of two counts of possession of a large capacity feeding device as well as possession of ammunition without an FID card. The charges stem from a December 5, 2021 shooting incident near 40 Crosby Street in Lawrence. Authorities said what was supposed to be a planned meetup instead resulted in the shooting death of Ruiz by Guillen.

Assistant District Attorney Mary Eileen Spano presented technological evidence including text messages, videos, and motor vehicle data about the planned meetup as well as extensive video footage of the incident. She noted that, in the hours following the shooting, Guillen abandoned his phone and his vehicle, disposed of the murder weapon, and changed his appearance. Spano also argued that shell casings found at the scene of the crime matched the unique type of ammunition found in Guillen’s bedroom.

Tucker recognized the exemplary work of Spano, who was assisted by Assistant District Attorney Jessica Strasnick and Victim/Witness Advocate Erika German. Tucker also acknowledged the work of the Lawrence Police Department, including Sgt. Christopher Cote, and Massachusetts State Police, including Sgt. Thomas Sullivan and the Detective Unit assigned to the district attorney’s office. Guillen was represented by attorney Robin Gagne. The Hon. Kristen Buxton presided over the trial. Guillen is due to return to court for sentencing on Thursday, October 30.

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