by LOWELL, Mass. – Authorities are now calling 38-year-old Kevin Lino a serial killer after new murder charges were filed against him in connection with the deaths of two additional men experiencing homelessness. Lino is already serving time for the murders of Normand Varieur in Boston in 2012 and Jack Gilbert Berry in Missoula, Montana in 2014, according to Boston 25 News.
New Charges and Alleged Victims
In August, Lino was charged with the murders of two more men, both of whom were experiencing homelessness, according to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office. District Attorney Marian Ryan confirmed, “Mr. Lino is a serial killer. The Department of Justice defines a serial killer as someone who has taken the life of two individuals in separate situations. In this case we have already convictions in two. We’ve now brought charges in two more.”
The newly accused killings include:
- Gary Melanson, 54, who Lino allegedly beat to death with a metal baseball bat in 2010 at a homeless encampment in Lowell. Investigators say Melanson had been lighting fires for warmth after Lino told him not to, and Lino allegedly attacked him out of fear the fires would draw attention from police or the fire department.
- Douglas Leon Clarke, 30, who died in 2012 in Cambridge from what was initially believed to be an accidental drug overdose. Investigators now allege Lino administered a fatal dose of heroin, known as a “hot shot,” because he wanted to remove drug users from the homeless encampment near the Harvard Square MBTA station where both men were living.
Previous Convictions
Lino is currently serving sentences for the murders of Normand Varieur and Jack Gilbert Berry, who were also experiencing homelessness at the time of their deaths. These prior convictions, combined with the new charges, solidify authorities’ classification of Lino as a serial killer.
Clarification on Other Regional Cases
Officials emphasized that Lino is not believed to be connected to the recent series of deaths and disappearances in New England, which sparked concerns earlier this year. Since March, the remains of over 10 women have been discovered across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, though police have said most of these deaths are not deemed suspicious and are unrelated to Lino.
Possible Additional Victims
Authorities warn that there may be more victims, and the investigation is ongoing. Officials are urging anyone with information related to Lino or other potential incidents to come forward.
Community Impact
The cases highlight ongoing vulnerabilities faced by individuals experiencing homelessness. Law enforcement and advocacy groups stress the importance of protecting at-risk populations and improving access to services for those living in encampments.
Do you think there could be additional victims linked to Kevin Lino? Share your thoughts and concerns in the comments below.
