Worcester Police Search for Shooting Suspect as Housing Slowdown Raises Concerns
Worcester, MA – March 12, 2026 – Police search for a triple shooting suspect, housing permits fall sharply, and WPI launches a major celebration.
Police Seek Suspect in 2025 Triple Shooting
Worcester police are asking for the public’s help as they work to locate a 30-year-old man accused in a December 29, 2025 triple shooting at Guertins Cafe. Investigators say they have probable cause to arrest him on several firearm-related charges, including assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to authorities, multiple firearms believed to be connected to the shooting have not yet been recovered. Police are warning the public that the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.
Officials are urging anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to contact Worcester police. The case remains active as detectives continue their search.
Housing Permits Fall as City Faces Ongoing Demand
Newly released data show Worcester permitted 546 housing units in 2025, a significant drop from the 945 units approved in 2024. The decline comes at a time when the city is working toward an ambitious goal of adding more than 12,000 housing units by 2033 to help meet demand.
City officials say financing hurdles and higher borrowing costs have slowed development. Those economic pressures have made it more difficult for projects to move forward, even as the need for housing remains high.
The slowdown is raising concerns among city leaders and housing advocates, who stress that steady construction is essential to easing pressure on renters and prospective homebuyers. With demand continuing to outpace supply, the pace of new permits will likely remain a closely watched issue in the months ahead.
WPI Marks 100 Years Since Goddard’s Breakthrough
Worcester Polytechnic Institute has launched its Goddard Centennial Celebration, honoring 100 years since alumnus Robert H. Goddard’s groundbreaking work in rocketry. The milestone highlights Worcester’s historic connection to early space science and technological innovation.
The multi-month celebration will feature academic programming, public events, and student-led projects. University leaders say the effort is designed to spotlight Goddard’s legacy while inspiring the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators.
Organizers say the centennial not only reflects on past achievements, but also underscores Worcester’s ongoing role in advancing research and technology.