Commonwealth v. Barnoski

The defendant, William Barnoski, was convicted by a jury of murder in the first degree, assault by means of a dangerous weapon, and armed assault with intent to murder. Both of the victims were shot; one victim, John R. McDermott (Jack), died from his wounds, the other, Jack’s son, Peter McDermott (Peter), survived. In this appeal from the convictions and from denial of a motion for a new trial, the defendant argues that his convictions must be reversed. In addition, he urges us to act pursuant to our power under G. L. 278, § 33E (1992 ed.), to order a new trial or reduce the verdict of…