Weymouth, Massachusetts, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Christopher Caron, 42, has been charged with murder following the discovery of 27-year-old Declan Perry’s body outside South Shore Hospital. Initial reports suggested a drug overdose, but the autopsy revealed blunt force trauma and strangulation as the cause of death. Investigators allege that Caron and Perry planned to use illegal drugs before the fatal incident. The community mourns the loss of Perry, a beloved chef known for his vibrant presence.
Weymouth, Massachusetts
Christopher Caron, 42, of Scituate, has been charged with murder after the body of 27-year-old chef Declan Perry of Portland, Maine, was found in the back seat of a car outside South Shore Hospital on August 23. Authorities say Perry’s body was wrapped in blankets and bound with duct tape. An autopsy determined Perry died from blunt force trauma and strangulation, contradicting initial reports of a fatal drug overdose.
What investigators say happened
Police were alerted to the vehicle after Caron approached hospital staff and said someone in the car needed medical help. When the car was opened, Perry was found unresponsive in the back seat, wrapped and bound. Emergency responders and hospital staff later determined Perry was deceased. Subsequent medical examination identified deep hemorrhaging in the chest, back, and head from blunt force trauma, and neck injuries consistent with strangulation occurring prior to death.
Prosecutors’ account and evidence
Prosecutors say Caron and Perry arranged to take illegal drugs together on August 22, the day before Perry’s death. Court records and cellphone activity presented by prosecutors indicate Caron warned Perry about the strength of the drugs and asked him to delete messages. Investigators cite online searches and messages by Caron, including a late-night search for Narcan at 11:40 p.m. on August 22 and a later search the next morning concerning body functions after death. A friend who arrived at Caron’s home shortly after 3 a.m. on August 23 attempted to revive Perry with three doses of Narcan but was unable to do so.
Allegations about moving the body
Prosecutors allege that Caron and others moved Perry’s body from the residence to a vehicle and then to the hospital parking lot. Neighbors who assisted in moving the body did so after being told the item was a hockey mannequin; one helper noticed a human forearm visible beneath the blankets. After bringing the car to the hospital, Caron left the scene and later turned himself in to police on August 30. During a search of Caron’s home, investigators reported finding red-brown stains on carpet and furniture.
Victim information and community impact
Declan Perry worked as a chef at a Portland, Maine restaurant. Family members and acquaintances described him as a beloved friend and family member. Perry’s death has prompted sorrow within both the workplace and his family community. Perry’s father expressed devastation at the loss and the profound impact of his son’s death.
Legal status and next steps
Caron has been formally charged with murder and was ordered held without bail. He is scheduled to return to court on September 29. The charges will move through the criminal justice system, where prosecutors will present evidence and the defense may respond. No conviction has been entered at this stage, and the accused remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Timeline of key dates and actions
- August 22: Caron and Perry allegedly planned to take fentanyl and cocaine together; late-night online search for Narcan noted at 11:40 p.m.
- Shortly after 3:00 a.m., August 23: A friend of Perry arrived and attempted to revive him with three doses of Narcan.
- August 23: Perry’s body discovered in a black 2019 Honda Civic outside South Shore Hospital; police notified by Caron.
- August 30: Caron turned himself in to police.
- September 29: Caron’s next scheduled court appearance.
Investigation details and forensic findings
Medical examiners found evidence of severe blunt force trauma to the chest, back, and head, and determined that neck injuries from strangulation occurred prior to death. Police examined Caron’s residence and vehicle as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have cited digital evidence, witness accounts, and physical evidence recovered at the scene and at the home as part of the case file.
Safety and legal resources
Individuals concerned about suspected drug overdoses or violence are advised to contact emergency services immediately. Local law enforcement handles criminal investigations and prosecutions, while medical examiners determine cause and manner of death in suspicious or unexplained fatalities.
FAQ
Who has been charged in this case?
Christopher Caron, 42, of Scituate, has been charged with murder in connection with the death of Declan Perry.
Where and when was the body found?
Declan Perry’s body was found on August 23 in the back seat of a black 2019 Honda Civic parked outside South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, Massachusetts.
What did the autopsy find?
The autopsy identified blunt force trauma to the chest, back, and head and concluded that neck injuries from strangulation occurred prior to death.
Was a drug overdose involved?
Initial reports suggested an overdose, but the autopsy and prosecutors’ filings indicate death resulted from blunt force trauma and strangulation. Investigators noted the presence of illegal drugs in events leading up to the death.
What is the current legal status of the accused?
Caron has been ordered held without bail and is scheduled to return to court on September 29. The case is pending further proceedings.
Quick reference table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of discovery | South Shore Hospital parking lot, Weymouth, Massachusetts |
| Date found | August 23 |
| Victim | Declan Perry, 27, chef from Portland, Maine |
| Accused | Christopher Caron, 42, of Scituate |
| Cause of death | Blunt force trauma and strangulation (per autopsy) |
| Initial status | Accused held without bail |
| Next court date | September 29 |
| Employer of victim | The Grill Room, Portland, Maine |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Man Arrested for Murder in Scituate Incident
Investigation Launched After Body Found Outside Weymouth Hospital
Boston Sees Major Gun Trafficking Bust with Charges Against Eighteen Brazilian Nationals
Additional Resources
- WMTW: Maine Chef Dead – Murder Details
- CBS News: Christopher Caron Charged with Declan Perry Murder
- Boston.com: Man Pleads Not Guilty in Maine Chef’s Death
- The Maine Wire: Arrest Made in Death of Maine Chef
- Wikipedia: Declan Perry
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF 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.
