March 11, 2025 – Holland, Massachusetts – On Monday, March 10, 2025, Jonathan Poirier of Holland, Massachusetts was arraigned in Palmer District Court on the charge of murder.

On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in the afternoon hours, there was a heavy law enforcement presence in the 100-block area of Union Road in Holland. A body was later recovered in connection to a missing persons investigation being conducted by local and state police.

The victim has been identified as Austin Schepper, 29, of Sturbridge. District Attorney Anthony Gulluni extended his condolences to the victim’s family.

Upon further investigation, members of the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Worcester District Attorney’s Office, Sturbridge Police and Holland Police were able to identify the defendant, Jonathan Poirier, in connection with the homicide.

Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni stated, “We stand with the family and community of Holland as we continue to mourn the loss of Austin Schepper. Now, our attention turns to this case and seeking justice for the victim and his loved ones. I appreciate the efforts of the investigators, with whom we will continue to collaborate through the prosecution of this case.”

Jonathan Poirier is charged with: (1) count of murder. Mr. Poirier was held without the right to bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 6, 2025.

This remains an ongoing investigation by the Hampden District Attorney’s Office in conjunction with the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Worcester District Attorney’s Office, Sturbridge Police and Holland Police.