Investigation Update: Peggy Yousuf Identified as Victim in Glenville Avenue Homicide; Suspect in Custody
ALLSTON, MA – The Boston Police Department has released further details surrounding a tragic homicide that occurred Monday evening in the Allston neighborhood. The victim, identified as Peggy Yousuf, 77, of Allston, was found deceased at her residence at 82 Glenville Avenue following a suspected domestic violence incident. Authorities responded to a radio call regarding an “unknown incident” at approximately 7:48 p.m. on April 21, 2025.
Upon arrival, officers from District D-14 (Brighton/Allston) discovered Ms. Yousuf unresponsive inside the residence. Despite the swift response of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The circumstances of her death were immediately treated as suspicious, prompting a city-wide response.
Suspect Apprehended Following Attempted Carjacking
As officers secured the scene and initiated an investigation, multiple law enforcement units across Boston mobilized to locate a suspect believed to be connected to the homicide. A short time later, the suspect — identified as 26-year-old Omar Riaz of Boston — was apprehended near 50 Quint Avenue, less than half a mile from the crime scene.
Riaz was taken into custody after allegedly attempting to carjack a vehicle in the area, in what appeared to be a desperate attempt to flee the neighborhood. The carjacking incident led to a brief confrontation with law enforcement, during which the suspect was reportedly resisting arrest before being subdued.
Charges Filed Against Omar Riaz
Omar Riaz was formally arraigned in Brighton District Court and now faces multiple serious charges:
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Murder
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Armed Carjacking
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Resisting Arrest
Court documents have not yet revealed whether the victim and the suspect were known to one another, although police sources have indicated that domestic violence is a key line of inquiry in the ongoing investigation. A full autopsy is being conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the exact cause of death.
Community in Shock
The tragic death of Peggy Yousuf has shaken the tight-knit Allston community. Neighbors described her as a kind and gentle woman who had lived in the area for many years. Flowers and candles have begun to appear outside her residence as locals come to terms with the violent loss of a longtime neighbor.
“She always greeted everyone with a smile,” said one resident. “It’s heartbreaking to think something so awful could happen just steps from our doors.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Boston Police Department’s Homicide Unit continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing. While a suspect is now in custody, authorities are urging the public to come forward with any additional information that could aid the investigation.
Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area around Glenville Avenue or Quint Avenue on Monday evening, or who has relevant footage from doorbell or vehicle cameras, is encouraged to contact the BPD Homicide Unit at 617-343-4470.
Community members who wish to remain anonymous can call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word “TIP” to CRIME (27463).