Elexson Hercules was 19 when he was fatally stabbed on the night of June 21, 2012, in East Boston. A former MS-13 member who had been trying to leave gang life after the birth of his daughter, he had postponed a needed surgery to support his girlfriend and newborn. While walking with a friend and three others near the corner of Bennington and Marion Streets, Hercules stayed behind to speak with four men who had approached; moments later his friend heard him pleading. The four men ran off, leaving Hercules bleeding from five stab wounds to the chest. He was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital and pronounced dead.

Police later warned of possible retaliatory violence because of his past affiliations. Family and those in an anti-violence program described his efforts to change, but no arrests have been made and the identities of the four men remain unknown. If anyone knew Elexson or saw activity near Bennington and Marion Streets that night, please share what was observed.