Candlelight Vigil Honors Victim of Mattapan Carjacking Incident
BOSTON, MA—A candlelight vigil was held on Tuesday evening to honor 32-year-old Mabinty Janneh of Dorchester, who was killed in a carjacking incident on Blue Hill Avenue on Saturday afternoon.
According to authorities, Janneh was struck by a stolen vehicle driven by 37-year-old Ibraim Matos of Hyde Park. The vehicle reportedly mounted the sidewalk, fatally hitting Janneh before crashing into an MBTA bus. Witnesses stated that Matos dragged Janneh several hundred feet after impact.
Matos has been charged with murder, leaving the scene of personal injury and death, motor vehicle homicide by reckless operation, and carjacking. He pleaded not guilty during a court appearance on Monday. His defense attorney indicated they would reassess the case following a mental health evaluation.
Community members gathered near the crash site to pay their respects. “We need justice for Mabinty,” said her aunt, Mbalu Tarawally. Rev. Dr. Barbara Simmons expressed her support, stating, “If the family lost a person, the least I can do is come here.”
Emergency responders arrived on the scene to provide medical aid, but Janneh succumbed to her injuries. The roadway was temporarily closed for the investigation, and tows were initiated for the involved vehicles. Authorities continue to investigate the incident as community members mourn the tragic loss.