Two Charged with Killing Milford Man Held Without Bail

Two Milford men charged in a Blackstone murder will be held without bail.

William Hodges, 34, and Brendan Bates, 25, both of 30 Birmingham Court, Milford, were arraigned Monday in Uxbridge District Court, according to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. Both pleaded not guilty to murder and misleading a police investigation.

On Friday night around 7:30 p.m., a Milford man named Kevin Gonsalves was shot several times in the driveway of 139 Mendon St., Blackstone. According to investigators, Hodges and Bates drove Gonsalves to that address under the guise of robbing a drug dealer. The two suspects got out of the car, and Hodges then shot Gonsalves in the head and chest.

The shooting was allegedly over a dispute Hodges had with Gonsalves.

Blackstone Police and Fire responded to the scene after receiving a 911 call reporting the sound of gunshots. Gonsalves was determined to be dead at the scene.

Hodges and Bates were arrested on Sunday.

The handgun believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered Monday by the State Police Dive Team.

Bates is due back in court on Jan. 5 while Hodges is scheduled for an appearance on Jan. 6.