A man who admitted to opening fire in a Springfield club in 2009, killing one person and injuring four others, was granted parole following his first appearance before the Massachusetts Parole Board in a unanimous decision.
Marcus Blanton was 24 when he fired multiple gunshots toward the bar at Club 418 in Springfield on May 30, 2009. Less than two years later, in January 2011, he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder for the death of Aaron Waldon and was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole.
Waldon was pronounced dead on the night of the shooting. Four others were hurt, with injuries to their chest, abdomen, calf, knees, thighs and buttocks, according to the board’s decision.
Blanton made his first appearance before the state’s parole board last July.
In its decision, the board noted Blanton has invested in his own development, earning a bachelor of arts from Emerson College and gaining several occupational skills, including certifications in bio-hazards and from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
During the hearing, according to the board’s decision, Blanton “addressed the precipitants that led to the offense.” He has invested in restorative justice and understanding how his mental health and substance use issues impacted his behavior.
“He demonstrated insight into his offending behavior and motivation to continue with treatment in the community,” the board wrote, adding Blanton has a strong support system and re-entry plan.
Blanton will be released to authorities in Florida through an interstate compact. As conditions of his release, he must undergo mental health counseling for adjustment and be subject to electronic monitoring for three months. Blanton must also be supervised for drug and alcohol abstinence.
