BOSTON, July 10, 2016—Boston Police homicide detectives this morning arrested a suspect in the homicide last month of 19-year-old Blanca Lainez in East Boston, Police Commissioner William B. Evans and Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley said.

Jose Hernandez, 16, of East Boston is expected to be arraigned on a murder charge tomorrow in East Boston Municipal Court, authorities said. 

Boston Police homicide detectives and Suffolk prosecutors obtained a warrant for the youth yesterday amid the ongoing investigation, which has yielded phone records, video surveillance images, and forensic evidence corroborated by additional information gathered since June 15, when Lainez’ body was found.

“This arrest is evidence of our commitment to justice for the victims and survivors of homicide,” Commissioner Evans said. “I want to commend the efforts of my detectives and all those who worked tirelessly during this investigation.  I pray that this arrest brings some level of comfort to the family.”

“This arrest reflects a nonstop investigation into a crime of brutal violence,” Conley said.  “But that investigation is still very active, and we urge anyone with additional information to share it with police and prosecutors. Every tip, however small, brings us closer to finding justice for Blanca and her loved ones.”

Boston Police responded to the area of 54 Princeton St. in East Boston at about 8:50 that morning for a report of a person down. On arrival, they found the victim suffering from significant trauma later determined to be stab wounds and blunt force injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police and prosecutors said the investigation into Lainez’ homicide remains very active. Anyone with additional information is strongly urged to share it with Boston Police homicide detectives at 617-343-4470. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous may call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of all those who wish to help this investigation in an anonymous manner.

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All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt