PEABODY — A Peabody man has been charged with manslaughter in connection with a New Year’s Day assault that led to his sister’s death, authorities announced Monday.
Alban Dobra, 39, is accused of pushing his sister, Mimoza Sawtelle, causing her to fall and suffer fatal head injuries, according to Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker and Peabody Police Chief Thomas M. Griffin.
Police responded to a call at 5:22 p.m. on Jan. 1 at 3 Esquire Drive, where they found Sawtelle with serious head trauma outside the home.
The incident occurred after Dobra allegedly tried to remove his two sisters from the property, resulting in Sawtelle’s fall from the front steps.
Sawtelle, born on Dec. 5, 1969, was taken to a hospital for treatment but succumbed to her injuries on Jan. 5.
Dobra was arrested on the night of the assault and was initially charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury.
He was arraigned on Jan. 2 and held without bail.
Judge Barretto today arraigned Dobra on the upgraded charge of manslaughter.
He is scheduled to return to court for a detention hearing on Jan. 12 and is being represented by Attorney John Lalikos.
