Police Arrest One in Missing Person Case, Excavate Union St. Backyard

, the Massachusetts State Police and the District Attorney's office are currently searching for a missing person and a possible suspicious death at Union Street.

Subsequently, Matthew Worster, 17, of Easton, is currently charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, according to the Bristol County District Attorney's office and Easton Police Chief

"The victim in the case has not been positively identified as of this time, and therefore his or her name is not being released," Bristol County District Attorney Samuel Sutter said in a statement Thursday morning.

Krajcik said approximately a dozen investigators are on the case working in the backyard. Police officials were seen walking into the backyard carrying pick axes and shovels. A tent was set up in the backyard where investigators were apparently digging. He said police first received a 911 call regarding a missing person at approximately 5 p.m. yesterday.

Neighbors gathered in front of the house at 7 Union Street where where Worster lived. According to the Town Assessor office, the property is registered to Michael S. Worster and Beth H. Worster.

Matthew Worster had been a student at High School until Oct. of 2010, according to the school's superintendent Louis Lopes. Lopes said faculty and staff at the school are providing resources for students who may be "adversely affected."

"The faculty and staff at Southeastern Regional put the safety and well-being of our students first," Lopes said in a statement Thursday. "Our focus at this time is on supporting our students and maintaining a safe and nurturing learning environment."

John Falzone, a nearby Washington Street resident whose son was friends with Matthew Worster described him as a "good kid." He said the Worster family lived in the three first houses on the south side of Union Street, including number seven.

"It's sad," he said. "We don't have much stuff happen like this in Easton."

Peter Cali, also a neighbor on Washington Street said he was surprised to hear the news. He said the area was generally a good neighborhood.

"I saw the cops here last night," he said. "I thought it was just a car accident."

Krajcik said the police departments and office of the District Attorney are working together and the investigation is currently under the DA's jurisdiction.

Patch will have more information as it becomes available.