Home / Crime and Justice / Schizophrenic Man's Murder Trial Opens
Schizophrenic Man's Murder Trial Opens
11 Jul
Summary
- Defendant claims self-defense in June 2020 stabbing.
- Schizophrenia diagnosis and involuntary commitment cited.
- Victim had drugs in his system during altercation.
The murder trial of Benjamin Willie, accused of the June 30, 2020, stabbing death of Josue Rios, commenced with opening statements on Friday, July 10, 2026. Prosecutors contend Willie intentionally stabbed Rios near their homes in Worcester, Massachusetts. Willie, who was 20 at the time, had allegedly stopped taking his medication for schizophrenia.
Rios, 29, died from a single stab wound to the chest. He had drugs in his system and was reportedly waiting to buy them when he encountered Willie, who was allegedly slashing his girlfriend's tires. A struggle ensued, and Rios called 911, claiming self-defense with a piece of glass.
Willie's defense lawyer argued that his client acted in self-defense, presenting evidence of Willie's involuntary commitment in April 2020 due to a mental breakdown. The defense emphasized Willie's documented schizophrenia and suggested Rios's drug use and actions provoked the altercation. Willie, deemed competent to stand trial, has been held without bail since 2020.
Evidence presented included a 911 call from Willie and testimony from police and Rios's brother. Police testified they found no gun at the scene, contrary to Willie's claims on the call. The trial was scheduled to resume on Monday, July 13, 2026.
