Mass. Man Who Killed Grandma Before Drinking Her Blood and Setting Body on Fire Will Remain in Prison

Massachusetts Man Denied Parole for Killing Grandmother, Drinking Her Blood, and Setting Body on Fire

A Massachusetts man, James Riva II, has been denied parole for the sixth time after the brutal killing of his grandmother, Carmen Lopez, in 1980. The parole board statement revealed that Riva, now 67, was found guilty of murdering Lopez in her Marshfield home and was further convicted of arson. He was sentenced to life in prison with an additional 19 to 20 years for the arson charge.

The parole board’s decision to deny Riva’s appeal for parole was based on concerns raised by his family members, who fear potential retaliation. The tragic events unfolded on April 10, 1980, when Riva went to his grandmother’s house after she asked him to do her laundry. It was reported that Riva retrieved a gun from the basement, shot Lopez multiple times, and then dragged her body to the bedroom.

In a disturbing turn of events, Riva proceeded to drink his grandmother’s blood by ripping open her pajamas and sucking the blood from the bullet holes. He then poured dry gas on her body, set it on fire, and left the scene shortly after. Authorities apprehended Riva when he returned to the residence with his father, who was questioned by officers responding to the house fire.

The parole board’s statement detailed the gruesome nature of the crime, shedding light on the horrific series of events that transpired on that fateful day. Despite his multiple attempts at seeking parole, Riva’s past actions and the concerns raised by his own family have led to the denial of his release from prison.

The heart-wrenching tragedy of a grandson brutally ending his grandmother’s life, followed by the unfathomable act of drinking her blood and setting her body on fire, continues to haunt those involved in the case. The denial of Riva’s parole serves as a reminder of the heinous nature of the crime he committed over four decades ago.

The case of James Riva II stands as a stark reminder of the enduring pain and trauma caused by acts of violence within families. The denial of his parole reaffirms the commitment to justice and accountability for the horrific crimes committed, ensuring that the memories of Carmen Lopez are honoured and respected.

As the years pass, the memory of Carmen Lopez lives on through the pursuit of justice in her tragic case. The decision to keep James Riva II behind bars echoes the sentiment of upholding the rule of law and serving justice for the victims of violent crimes.

In the aftermath of this harrowing incident, the communities affected by such acts of violence are reminded of the importance of seeking justice and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. The denial of parole for James Riva II signifies a step towards closure and justice for the family and loved ones of Carmen Lopez.