State of Massachusetts News Roundup Week of April 26, 2026
The top news stories in Massachusetts focused on a tragic domestic incident in Wellesley, major shifts in Boston sports, and a series of college closures.
Crime & Safety
Wellesley Murder Case: Authorities charged Janette MacAusland, 49, with the murder of her two children, ages 6 and 7, after they were found dead in their Wellesley home following a welfare check. MacAusland was apprehended in Vermont and is awaiting extradition.
Sheriff’s Deputy Arrested: A Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department officer was arrested this week on severe charges, including human trafficking and child rape, allegedly committed in multiple Massachusetts towns.
Criminal Enterprise Sentencing: A leader of a violent “criminal enterprise” that distributed over 500 grams of illegal substances in Massachusetts was sentenced to prison this week.
Red Sox Fire Manager: The Boston Red Sox fired manager Alex Cora and several coaches following a poor start to the season, including a 10-3 loss to the Orioles.
Small College Closures: Following an announcement from Hampshire College, Anna Maria College in Paxton announced it would close at the end of the summer, citing declining enrollment.
UMass Amherst Hotel Murder: Jeff MacDonald of Wilbraham was charged with murdering his wife, a UMass staff member, inside the Hotel UMass on campus on April 22, 2026.
Boston Soccer Stadium Pushback: Plans for a $325M soccer stadium for Boston (White Stadium) are facing potential roadblocks due to disputes over alcohol service plans.
Cold Case Solved: The Plymouth County District Attorney announced that DNA evidence identified a man responsible for the 1991 rape and murder of a woman in Brockton.
Boston Marathon Spectator Controversy: A man was identified and criticized for stomping on an Israeli flag and making a Nazi salute during the week of the Boston Marathon.
Events & Regional News:
New England VegFest: Held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Worcester State University.
Japan Festival Boston: Hosted on Boston Common on April 25-26, 2026.
Berkshire County Fire: A fire destroyed a structure at Windy Hill Farm in Great Barrington, leaving it a total loss.
State Politics & Elections
Minogue Wins GOP Endorsement: Wealthy biotechnology executive Mike Minogue secured the Massachusetts Republican Party’s endorsement for Governor in a landslide at the DCU Center convention, receiving 70% of the delegate vote.
GOP Ticket Solidifies: Anne Brensley won the endorsement for Lieutenant Governor, while John Deaton accepted the nod for U.S. Senate.
Narrowing the Field: Former MBTA chief Brian Shortsleeve barely reached the 15% threshold to qualify for the September primary ballot, while candidate Mike Kennealy fell short and will not appear on the ballot.
Healthcare & Economy
Nursing Strike Looming: Nearly 500 nurses at Boston Medical Center South in Brockton issued a notice for a three-day strike beginning April 30, citing ongoing contract disputes.
College Closure Crisis: Anna Maria College in Paxton announced it will shut down due to financial struggles, leaving many newly enrolled students searching for alternatives as other local colleges like AIC step in to assist.
Affordable Housing Grant: Governor Maura Healey announced $12.8 million in funding dedicated to advancing affordable housing projects across the state.
Sports & Local Life
Red Sox Leadership Shakeup: The Boston Red Sox fired manager Alex Cora and several coaching staff members this week. The team followed the announcement with a dominant 17-1 victory over the Orioles.
Spring Events: This weekend features the Japan Festival Boston at Boston Common and the Run of the Charles paddling race.
Transportation Alerts: Structural debris falling onto tracks in Rhode Island caused significant delays and cancellations for Amtrak and commuter rail service between Boston and Kingston