Taylor Poulin, a 30-year-old man from Long Beach, California, died on September 23, 2022, in a shocking and unexpected way. His death was the result of a gunshot wound to the chest that entered through the back, according to the medical examiner. But what led to this fatal shooting? And who was responsible for it? This article will explore the circumstances surrounding Taylor Poulin’s cause of death and the aftermath of the tragedy.
A Drug Deal Gone Wrong
According to court documents, Taylor Poulin was involved in a drug deal with a 17-year-old high school student named Tyler Zanco, who was also the captain of his varsity wrestling team. Zanco and two of his friends planned to rob Poulin, who they believed had cheated Zanco’s cousin in a previous marijuana transaction.
On March 20, 2014, Zanco and his friends met Poulin at a parking lot in Waltham, Massachusetts, where they intended to buy some weed from him. However, things quickly turned violent when Zanco used a stun gun on Poulin during the exchange and a fight ensued. Poulin was not alone; he had brought another man with him, identified as Domingo Mendes, a 22-year-old from Belmont.
Mendes allegedly pulled out a revolver-style gun and fired it into the air, causing Zanco to run away. Mendes then fired two or three more shots, one of which hit Zanco in the back and pierced his chest. Zanco was later pronounced dead at Newton Wellesley Hospital.
A Manhunt for the Shooter
Poulin and Mendes fled the scene in a gray Dodge muscle car, leaving behind a trail of blood and a stunned community. Police launched a manhunt for the suspects, who were considered armed and dangerous. Poulin was arrested several days later in Windham, Maine, where he had relatives. He was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, unlicensed possession of a firearm, and conspiracy to violate drug laws. He pleaded not guilty and was held on $500,000 bail.
Mendes, however, remained at large for more than two years. He was finally captured in June 2016 in Somerville, Massachusetts, after a tip from an anonymous caller. He was charged with first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, and conspiracy to violate drug laws. He also pleaded not guilty and was held without bail.
A Loss for Two Families
The shooting death of Taylor Poulin and Tyler Zanco left two families devastated and heartbroken. Poulin left behind his mother, his daughter, his girlfriend, his brother, his sister, and many other relatives and friends who mourned his loss. His obituary described him as someone who had a passion for hockey, skateboarding, music, and writing music. He also strived to be the best at things he was passionate about.
Zanco left behind his parents, his brother, his sister, and many other relatives and friends who remembered him as a bright and talented student-athlete. His obituary said he loved wrestling, football, lacrosse, fishing, hunting, camping, and spending time with his family and friends. He also had dreams of becoming an engineer or an architect.
Both families expressed their grief and anger over the senseless violence that took away their loved ones. They also hoped for justice and closure as the cases against Poulin and Mendes proceeded in court.
Taylor Poulin’s cause of death was a tragic end to a young life that had so much potential. His story is a reminder of the dangers of drug-related crimes and the need for prevention and intervention programs to help those who are struggling with addiction or other issues. His death also shows how one bad decision can have fatal consequences for everyone involved.
