Shrewsbury, MA — Just one day after the tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis, authorities in Massachusetts have arrested a 26-year-old trans-identifying individual in connection with a separate fatal shooting.
Police confirmed that Snehal Ansh Srivastava, who goes by the name “Sasha Shakur” and uses she/her pronouns, was taken into custody on Thursday, August 28, in Shrewsbury. Srivastava is accused of fatally shooting 57-year-old Kevin Doherty, a local father, following a confrontation near Jordan Park.
According to investigators, Doherty had just dropped his child off at a nearby elementary school when he noticed Srivastava allegedly vandalizing public property. A verbal altercation reportedly escalated, during which Srivastava is accused of producing a firearm and shooting Doherty.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but Doherty was pronounced dead shortly afterward due to his injuries. Police say Srivastava attempted to flee but was apprehended nearby without further incident.
The case comes less than 24 hours after the mass shooting in Minneapolis, carried out by Robert “Robin” Westman, who also identified as transgender. That attack left two children dead and more than a dozen people injured, sending shockwaves through the nation. The proximity of these incidents, both involving trans-identifying suspects, has sparked renewed debate and national scrutiny over violence, identity, and public safety.
Shrewsbury Police Chief Kevin Anderson addressed reporters late Thursday evening, urging calm as the investigation continues.
“This is a devastating loss for the Doherty family and for our community. While we understand the timing of this case raises difficult questions, our focus remains on securing justice for the victim and ensuring public safety.”
Court records show that Srivastava is being held without bail pending arraignment. Investigators are working to determine whether the suspect had prior criminal history or known ties to activist groups.
Neighbors described Doherty as a devoted family man and longtime Shrewsbury resident who was well liked in the community.
“Kevin was the kind of guy who always looked out for people,” said one neighbor. “The fact that he died after standing up for what’s right makes this even harder to accept.”
The Worcester District Attorney’s Office has taken over the case and is expected to release further details in the coming days. Meanwhile, local residents are planning a candlelight vigil in memory of Kevin Doherty.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to contact Shrewsbury Police or the Worcester County District Attorney’s tip line.