Fundraiser for Funeral of Murdered Lawrence Teen: ICYMI

LAWRENCE, MA — A fundraiser has been established for murdered Lawrence teenager Lee Manuel Viloria-Paulino. Viloria-Paulino, 16, a Lawrence High School student, was beheaded by classmate Mathew Borges and dumped in the Merrimack River, police said. The victim's body was recovered December 1 after a woman walking her dog stumbled across it. A funeral has not yet been held.

A family representative established a GoFundMe fundraiser. All money will go to the family to pay for funeral costs and legal fees as they navigate "this very painful process," said representative Linette Perez. Any remaining funds will be used for a Lawrence High School scholarship in Viloria-Paulino's name.

• Lee Manuel Viloria-Paulino Memorial on GoFundMe

The campaign raised about $12,500 as of Thursday afternoon.

Borges lured Viloria-Paulino to the Merrimack River near McCabe Court to smoke marijuana, prosecutors said. Borges then stabbed and beheaded Viloria-Paulino and dumped his body in the water, prosecutors said.

A potential motive has not been disclosed. Police said Borges "misled" investigators in the early phase of the investigation. Viloria-Paulino was first reported missing November 19.

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• Lawrence Teen Found Decapitated in Merrimack River

Photo credit: Viloria-Paulino family