Boston teens held without bail in slaying at Hermanos Unidos

BOSTON (FOX25, myfoxboston) - Two Boston teenagers charged with fatally shooting a 71-year-old clerk during a convenience store holdup have been ordered held without bail.

Sixteen-year-old Onyx White and 17-year-old Martin Freeles pleaded not guilty to murder, armed robbery while masked and other offenses at their arraignment Thursday in Roxbury District Court.

Thet two teens, however, did not show their faces in court.

"Two cowards," said Angel Martinez, a nephew of the victim. "Two cowards."

Police say Geraldo Serrano was shot Sunday as he wielded a cane coming to the aid of a co-worker at Hermanos Unidos, a store in the city's Dorchester neighborhood. The father of nine and grandfather of 28 was pronounced dead at a hospital. Many members of Serrano's family were in court today, filling several benches.

Angel Serrano, one of Geraldo's sons, says his family is not only mourning the loss of him, but they also "feel" for the families the accused teenagers.

Outside court, Freeles' lawyer described him as "a frightened kid." White's grandmother declined to comment to reporters.

Cerrano's son told FOX25's Bob Ward they are very happy and grateful that they are getting justice so soon.

The suspects are due back in court on April 23.