Fitchburg man seeks parole 15 years after drug-fueled murder

FITCHBURG, Mass. — A Fitchburg man convicted for his role in a brutal murder fifteen years ago, is now trying to get out of prison.

Matthew Lavoie and his family appeared before the state parole board, begging for his release, saying he is a changed man.

FOX25's Bob ward attended that parole hearing where Lavoie told the board, this murder was all about drugs.

“First, I'd like to apologize to Westly's family.  I made some bad decisions in my life,” he said.

Lavoie, now 36, is trying to win his freedom back fifteen years after the murder of Westly VaanAnen shocked the City of Fitchburg.

VaanAnen's badly burned body was discovered wrapped in a blanket after he was shot to death.

Lavoie and two others were arrested.

At his parole hearing, Lavoie said the murder happened during a three day cocaine fueled binge.

Lavoie said he didn't pull the trigger, but he did help get rid of VaanAnan's body.

“We stopped on the road took him out, put gas on him, and lit him on fire,” Lavoie said.

Lavoie's family begged the parole board to release him and spoke directly to VaanAnan's family.

“I've been thinking of Westly's family. And what was taken away from people that day. I've never stopped thinking about you,” Lavoie’s mother said.

Westly VaanAnen was the father to a little boy. That son, also named Westly, is now a us marine who wants Lavoie to remain in prison.

“I hear a lot of excuses, blaming drugs, I just don't buy that. I'm sorry. I know plenty of people who have drug problems,” he said.

The Worcester County District Attorney is also fighting against parole saying Lavoie initially told police he was the shooter.

The parole board decision is not expected for several weeks.

Cox Media Group