Police in Massachusetts have arrested 22‑year‑old Ryan Hanafin, who authorities believe may be connected to the shooting death of his mother, Adria Hanafin, 49, in Reading.
The Vermont State Police took Ryan into custody after a call was made to the police around 12:38 a.m. on Thursday. The caller reported finding his wife dead in the kitchen of the couple’s home. Their 13‑year‑old son was present but unharmed, while the older son, Ryan, was not at the house when officers arrived.
Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said the arrest was made under the belief that a dispute between the mother and son may have led to the shooting. She also noted that Ryan had a license to carry a weapon, which was suspended on Thursday morning, though it is not clear whether he was armed when taken into custody.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is conducting an autopsy on Adria Hanafin; preliminary reports indicate the cause of death was a gunshot wound. Police have not released further details of the alleged conflict.
Ryan has urged residents of Reading and surrounding areas to exercise extreme caution if they encounter him. The DA emphasized that there is no further risk to public safety and that more information will follow regarding his apprehension and any forthcoming court appearances. She described the incident as a tragic and shocking event, noting that the family now has two children who have lost their mother and one who is a person of interest.
