KENNETT TOWNSHIP, Pa. (WPVI) — A Kennett Square man, Javier Rivera, 33, has been charged with first-degree murder following a deadly incident during an attempted car theft. Rivera was arrested early Monday and is currently held without bail at Chester County Prison.
The incident occurred Sunday evening when Rivera allegedly tried to steal a BMW parked in a driveway on Crestline Drive. The vehicle’s 69-year-old owner, Charles Maston, confronted Rivera, which led to a chase up the driveway. During the confrontation, Rivera stabbed Maston in the torso and neck, resulting in Maston’s death.
Rivera fled on foot and reportedly stole multiple vehicles to evade capture. He crashed into a gray Honda Accord, which he also allegedly stole after the drivers exited to exchange information.
Later, Rivera was spotted in West Chester breaking into a home on New Street. When confronted by residents, he fled. Back in Kennett Square, police found the crashed vehicle and discovered a gray Honda SUV stolen from a nearby garage.
Rivera was found at his residence in the stolen SUV, wearing clothing that matched witness descriptions. Authorities noted a laceration on his right palm and blood-like stains on his shoes and shirt.
Rivera remains held without bail. His preliminary hearing is set for August 20.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe said, “This quiet community was shattered by senseless violence. Thankfully, law enforcement worked quickly to prevent further harm.”
Kennett Township Police Chief Matthew Gordon described the attack as “brutal” and “shocking.”
Rivera’s brother told Action News that he was unsure about the accusations but mentioned Rivera has struggled with mental health issues recently and that this behavior is uncharacteristic.
