Suspects In Waltham Teen Slaying Plead Not Guilty

June 19, 2014

The Associated Press

Two men charged in connection with the shooting death of a Waltham High School senior and varsity wrestling captain have pleaded not guilty at their Superior Court arraignments.

Domingo Mendes (left) and Taylor Poulin (right) have been issued arrest warrants. (Courtesy of the Middlesex DA) — Domingo Mendes, left, and Taylor Poulin are charged in connection with the shooting death of Waltham teen. (Courtesy of the Middlesex DA)

Domingo Mendes, of Belmont, was held without bail after pleading not guilty Wednesday in Middlesex Superior Court to charges including murder in connection with the March death of 17-year-old Tyler Zanco.

Taylor Poulin, of Newton, was held on $250,000 bail after pleading not guilty to firearms and accessory charges.

An arrest warrant affidavit says Zanco was shot when he and two friends attempted to rob the 21-year-old Poulin, believing he cheated Zanco's cousin in a marijuana deal. The 22-year-old Mendes allegedly intervened in the fight and shot Zanco.

Lawyers for the defendants say their clients were the targets and victims in the case.

Earlier: Waltham Teen Fatally Shot Outside Apartment Complex