An investigation into two suspicious deaths in Chelsea early Monday morning is being conducted by detectives from both Chelsea Police and the State Police homicide unit, Chelsea Chief Brian Kyes and Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel Conley reported.
Emergency responders arrived at Crescent Avenue shortly before 4 a.m. Monday following a 9-1-1 call. Chelsea Police, Chelsea Fire, and emergency medical technicians discovered an adult male and adult female dead inside a blue Ford LTD at the scene.
The deceased were identified as Zouaoui Dani-Elkebir, 51, of Everett, and Karima El-Hakim, 38, also of Everett.
According to sources, both victims were believed to be of Moroccan descent and were occupying a livery vehicle at the time of their deaths. One source noted that warm cups of coffee were found in their laps when they were discovered.
According to another source, the alleged shooting occurred further up the street in the area of Spencer and Parker Streets. Following the shooting, the vehicle was driven down Crescent Avenue, where it struck a building.
Chelsea Police contacted the Suffolk County State Police Detective Unit following the initial response, as that unit holds jurisdiction over death investigations in Chelsea, Revere, Winthrop, and parts of Boston. The Chelsea Police Criminal Investigative Division is collaborating with State Police on the case. Various specialized State Police units, including the Crime Scene Services Section, also responded.
While investigators believe the deaths are suspicious, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will make the formal determination of cause and manner of death.
According to a source at the scene, investigators were examining whether a third occupant may have been present in the livery vehicle during the shooting, or whether another vehicle pulled alongside the victims.
Initial reports suggested that investigators faced challenges due to an apparent lack of functioning video surveillance cameras in the area, though police did not officially confirm this.
The public is encouraged to contact Chelsea Police detectives at 617-466-4843 or the Suffolk County State Police Detective Unit at 617-727-8817 with any information. Anonymous tips can be submitted to the Chelsea Police CrimeStoppers line at 617-466-4880, by texting CHELSEA and the information to TIP411 (847411), or through www.ChelseaPolice.com.