Arrest Made After Man, 22, Fatally Shot Near Franklin Park Zoo

BOSTON, MA — A 21-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the death of 22-year-old Xavier Rivas of Boston, who was fatally shot near the Franklin Park Zoo Saturday night, Boston police said.

Officers arrested Mikai Thomson Sunday afternoon at Albert and Ruggles Streets in Roxbury, according to police. He is facing multiple charges in connection with Rivas' death, including murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and unlawful possession of a firearm, police said.

Prior to Rivas' death, Thomson was already wanted on a warrant issued in August for various firearms charges and assault and battery on a police officer, according to police.

Thomson was set to be arraigned in the Dorchester District Court Tuesday morning.

The shooting occurred around 11:41 p.m. Saturday near Old Road and Michigan Avenue in Dorchester, which is close to the Franklin Park Zoo, police said.

Rivas' loved ones started a GoFundMe campaign following his death with the goal of raising $20,000 to cover his funeral expenses.

"We are deeply saddened by this loss. He was such a sweet, attentive, funny and caring soul," reads the description of the campaign. "Those who knew him, had no choice but to love him. He was such an important piece of our family. So please, help us lay Xavier to rest in his eternal home. We will miss you so much. We love you Xavier!"