Patrick Kenney Jr: Massachusetts man was fatally stabbed by knife he wore around his neck
SAUGUS, MASSACHUSETTS: Patrick Kenney Jr, 42, was found injured in the parking lot outside an Asian restaurant called Kowloon on the night of December 2, 2023. Initially believed to have been stabbed, police officers were called to the scene at 9 pm.
According to WCVB5, multiple sources reportedly stated that Kenney was fatally wounded by a knife that was attached to something he was wearing around his neck. The reason for him to wear a knife remains unclear.
Kenney was rushed to the Massachusetts General Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
A joint statement by Essex District Attorney Paul Tucker and Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli read, "This incident appears to be accidental, and no additional parties are believed to be involved."
How the situation came to pass has not yet been revealed as the incident remains under investigation.
Who was Patrick Kenney Jr?
Kenney has been described as "a loving father, husband, brother, son, and loyal friend to many," in a statement by his family.
"Our family is mourning the loss of Patrick, focused on his wife Lauren and two young children, and trying to make sense of this horrific tragedy," the statement read.
Speaking with WCVB5, Kenney's father called his son's death a freak accident.
He is survived by his wife, Lauren, and their young twin children.
The owners of Kowloon, the Wong family, reportedly told the outlet that they had known the deceased and his family for years as a result of them being loyal customers.
On the day of the tragedy, Kenney had taken a bus from the South Shore to Saugus with family and friends to have dinner at the restaurant.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family. Nothing else matters at this time. We ask that people don’t jump to conclusions until an investigation is completed," the Wongs stated.
Lauren Kenney's sisters set up GoFundMe
To help the family after the shocking death of Kenney, his sisters-in-law, Liz and Bridget, have set up a GoFundMe to support the family.
"Patrick, our sister Lauren's husband, departed unexpectedly, leaving behind a grieving wife and their precious children, Ava & Patrick," they wrote.
"Pat was not just a loving father; he was also Lauren's best friend and confidant. His sudden absence has created a void that words cannot fill. As we navigate this challenging time, our main focus is ensuring that the children receive the support necessary to navigate their daily lives amid these newfound challenges," they added.
"To provide a safety net for Lauren, Ava, and Patrick during this period of grief, we're launching this GoFundMe campaign. Your generosity will contribute to their future educational needs, ensuring that Pat's dream of securing a bright future for his family endures. The funds raised will also establish a resource for the children's long-term educational and additional requirements," they further said.
The campaign has raised over $51,000 as of December 5, 2023.