CT National Guard Mourns Loss Of Woman Killed In Shooting

DANBURY, CT — Chasity Nuñez, a Worcester woman killed with her daughter in their car last week, was a member of the Connecticut National Guard.

Nuñez and her 11-year-old daughter Zella were sitting in a car along Lisbon Street in the Columbus Park neighborhood of Worcester around 3 p.m. last Tuesday when someone in a vehicle fired dozens of shots at them. They died at a local hospital.

Nuñez was a decorated patient administration specialist serving with the 142nd Medical Company in Danbury. She began serving in 2020 and received the National Defense Service Medal, the Service Ribbon, and the Army Achievement Medal, MassLive reported.

The Connecticut National Guard posted a statement on social media regarding the loss.

"In this moment of sorrow, I ask that all members and leaders reach out to your fellow Soldiers and Airmen to ensure the grieving process does not place additional burdens or stress on them or their families."

National Guard Major David Pytlik described Nuñez as "beloved by her fellow soldiers in the 142nd Medical Company," according to MassLive.

The National Guard has made its Behavioral Health Teams and Chaplain Corps available for "assistance to any member or family member in need."

One person has been charged in the case and police are searching for a second person. Last Wednesday, police arrested Karol Mangual, 28, of Worcester, on charges of armed assault to murder and unlicensed possession of a gun.

Dejan Belnavis is wanted on the same charges. Police believe Belnavis traveled to Harford immediately after the shooting.

Police believe he is armed and dangerous. His vehicle was found near a relative's home in Hartford.

See related: Search For Dejan Belnavis: New Photos Of Suspect In Double Killing