Boston, MA, January 15, 2026
In a renewed effort for justice, the FBI and Boston Police have announced a $30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Hung Tien Pham, the last fugitive in the 1991 Chinatown Massacre. As the community marks 35 years since the tragic event, this initiative highlights the resilience of the Boston Chinatown community and the importance of civic engagement in seeking closure for the victims’ families.
Boston, MA.
Boston Unites for Justice: $30K Reward in Cold Case
Three decades after the Chinatown Massacre, authorities renew efforts, underscoring civic resilience and the power of individual initiative in seeking closure.
The passage of time often softens the sharp edges of tragedy, but for some wounds, only justice can bring true healing. This year marks the 35th anniversary of a horrific event etched into Boston’s history: the Chinatown Massacre of January 12, 1991. In a renewed demonstration of commitment to public safety and the rule of law, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Boston Police Department have announced a $30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the last remaining fugitive in the case, Hung Tien Pham. This substantial reward underscores a steadfast belief that individual initiative and civic cooperation remain paramount in resolving long-standing criminal matters.
The Boston Chinatown community, known for its enduring spirit and vibrant cultural contributions, has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of this unresolved crime. This renewed call for public assistance highlights how focused, collaborative efforts between law enforcement and engaged citizens can transcend decades, moving closer to providing long-awaited closure for the victims’ families and the wider community. Such an approach exemplifies how limited bureaucracy, when coupled with strong local leadership and individual accountability, can foster an environment where justice, however delayed, remains within reach.
The Tragic Events of January 1991
On January 12, 1991, in the early morning hours, an illegal gambling den located at 85 Tyler Street in Boston’s Chinatown became the scene of a brutal execution-style shooting. Six men were shot while playing cards, resulting in the deaths of five individuals: Chung Wah Son (age 58), Van Tran (31), Man Cheung (55), David Quang Lam (32), and Cuong Khanh Luu (26). One victim, Pak Wing Lee, survived his injuries. The incident, often referred to as the Tyler Street Massacre, shocked the city and left an indelible mark on the community. While an official motive has not been definitively established, investigations have indicated a potential power struggle between various factions, including the Ping On crime syndicate, vying for control over illicit gambling operations in the area.
The Decades-Long Pursuit of Justice
In the aftermath of the massacre, three individuals were identified as the alleged perpetrators: Hung Tien Pham, Siny Van Tran, and Nam The Tham. The pursuit of justice for the victims and their families began immediately, leading to a complex, international investigation. Through persistent efforts, Siny Van Tran and Nam The Tham were apprehended in China and subsequently extradited to the United States in 2001. Both individuals were later convicted in 2005 for their roles in the murders and sentenced to multiple life terms in prison. Their convictions served as a testament to the perseverance of law enforcement and the unwavering commitment to resolving such heinous crimes.
Renewed Focus: The $30,000 Reward
However, Hung Tien Pham, the third alleged perpetrator, managed to flee the country shortly after the massacre, boarding a flight to Hong Kong on February 1, 1991. He has remained at large ever since, evading capture for over three decades. In light of the 35th anniversary of the tragedy, the FBI and the Boston Police Department have reinvigorated their search for Pham by offering a reward of up to $30,000 for information that directly leads to his arrest and conviction. This substantial incentive underscores the importance placed on individual contributions to law enforcement efforts, recognizing that crucial breakthroughs often originate from vigilant citizens. Pham faces serious charges, including five counts of murder, one count of armed assault with intent to murder, conspiracy, and carrying a firearm without a license. A federal arrest warrant was issued for him in February 1991 for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Civic Engagement and Community Strength
The enduring pursuit of justice in the Boston Chinatown Massacre highlights the strength of civic engagement and the resilience of a community determined to see accountability. For decades, the Chinatown neighborhood has not only sought justice for the victims but has also worked to enhance public safety and foster a stronger, more connected environment. This proactive community involvement, often driven by personal initiative, demonstrates how local populations can actively partner with authorities to address challenges and contribute to lasting solutions. The sustained attention to this case reflects a collective belief in the principle that no crime should go unpunished and that every individual’s contribution to upholding order is valuable.
The Power of Collaboration: Law Enforcement and Public Partnership
The ongoing investigation into Hung Tien Pham’s whereabouts exemplifies the critical partnership between law enforcement agencies and the public. Authorities continue to explore all leads, acknowledging that Pham has known ties to various international locations, including Canada, China, Vietnam, Thailand, and Hong Kong, and connections to cities within the U.S. such as Philadelphia, Chicago, and the San Francisco Bay area. His last known location was Bangkok, Thailand, in the mid-to-late 1990s. The FBI has provided information about Pham, describing him as a Vietnamese national, and highlighting his various aliases and past occupations. The effectiveness of law enforcement is often amplified when individuals step forward with credible information, demonstrating how a system with limited bureaucratic hurdles can efficiently process and act upon public input to achieve justice.
As Boston commemorates the 35th anniversary of the Chinatown Massacre, the renewed focus on apprehending Hung Tien Pham serves as a powerful reminder of the city’s enduring commitment to justice. The $30,000 reward represents a significant opportunity for any individual with knowledge of Pham’s whereabouts to come forward and play a direct role in bringing closure to this long-unresolved case. This ongoing effort underscores the profound impact of individual initiative and persistent civic engagement in maintaining public order and supporting the well-being of our communities. We encourage all residents of Boston, MA, and beyond to consider how their awareness and cooperation can contribute to these vital civic endeavors, strengthening our collective pursuit of a secure and just society. Stay informed about local news and Boston MA events, and continue to support efforts that foster community safety and accountability.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Boston Chinatown Massacre?
- The Boston Chinatown Massacre, also known as the Tyler Street Massacre, was a gang-related execution-style shooting that took place on January 12, 1991, in an illegal gambling den located at 85 Tyler Street in Boston’s Chinatown. Six men were shot while playing cards, resulting in the deaths of five individuals: Chung Wah Son (age 58), Van Tran (31), Man Cheung (55), David Quang Lam (32), and Cuong Khanh Luu (26). One victim, Pak Wing Lee, survived his injuries.
- When did the Boston Chinatown Massacre occur?
- The Boston Chinatown Massacre occurred on January 12, 1991.
- Who is Hung Tien Pham?
- Hung Tien Pham is one of three individuals identified as an alleged perpetrator in the Boston Chinatown Massacre. He fled the country shortly after the massacre and remains at large, wanted by the FBI.
- What is the reward being offered for information on Hung Tien Pham?
- The FBI and the Boston Police Department are offering a reward of up to $30,000 for information that directly leads to the arrest and conviction of Hung Tien Pham.
- Who were the other perpetrators in the Boston Chinatown Massacre?
- The other perpetrators identified were Siny Van Tran and Nam The Tham. Both were apprehended in China, extradited to the U.S. in 2001, and convicted in 2005, receiving multiple life sentences.
Key Features of the Boston Chinatown Massacre Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Boston Chinatown Massacre (Tyler Street Massacre) |
| Date | January 12, 1991 |
| Location | Illegal gambling den at 85 Tyler Street, Boston’s Chinatown |
| Victims | Five men deceased, one critically injured survivor |
| Fugitive Suspect | Hung Tien Pham |
| Reward Offered | Up to $30,000 for information leading to Hung Tien Pham’s arrest and conviction |
| Agencies Offering Reward | FBI and Boston Police Department |
| Status of Other Suspects | Siny Van Tran and Nam The Tham convicted and serving life sentences |
| Anniversary | 35th Anniversary in January 2026 |
| Pham’s Charges | Five counts of murder, one count of armed assault with intent to murder, conspiracy, carrying a firearm without a license, unlawful flight to avoid prosecution |
| Pham’s Known Ties | Canada, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Hong Kong, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco Bay area |
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Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
