WEST CHESTER, PA — Authorities have charged a Kennett Square man with first-degree murder and related offenses in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 69-year-old resident during an alleged attempted car theft in Kennett Township on the evening of August 10, 2025.
Javier Rivera, 33, was arrested in the early morning hours of August 11 and is currently being held without bail at Chester County Prison. According to a criminal complaint filed by Chester County Detectives and the Kennett Township Police Department, Rivera allegedly attempted to steal a BMW from the victim’s driveway. When the homeowner confronted him, a confrontation ensued, during which Rivera is accused of stabbing the victim in the torso and neck, causing his death.
Investigators allege Rivera then fled on foot, stealing multiple vehicles in an effort to evade capture. At one point, he allegedly crashed into a gray Honda Accord, and when the drivers exited to exchange information, he is accused of stealing that vehicle as well. Authorities say Rivera later drove a stolen car to West Chester, where he allegedly broke into a home on New Street before eventually returning to his Kennett Square residence in a stolen Honda CRV.
Police report that Rivera was found at his home wearing clothing matching witness descriptions, with a laceration on his right palm and what appeared to be dried blood on his shoes and shirt.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe described the incident as “senseless violence” that had “shattered” the community. Kennett Township Police Chief Matthew Gordon called the alleged attack “a brutal” act that “shocks the conscience.”
The Chester County Detectives are leading the investigation with assistance from multiple local and state law enforcement agencies. Authorities continue to seek additional information from the public.
All charges are allegations. Rivera is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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