A Wellesley man pleaded not guilty Friday to first-degree murder in connection with the stabbing death of his father. The arraignment took place in Dedham District Court, where Caleb Bennett was ordered held without bail.

Norfolk Assistant District Attorney Anne S. Yas detailed the circumstances of the attack during the hearing. Bennett’s father suffered approximately 20 stab wounds, including a nearly severed arm. Emergency responders discovered the victim underneath a children’s slide at Phillips Park, bleeding heavily and struggling to speak. When questioned by an officer about who had attacked him, the man managed to say, “my son,” before losing consciousness. He was transported to Newton-Wellesley Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

According to prosecutors, Bennett fled the scene and returned to the home he shares with his mother. He reportedly placed the knife he allegedly used into a garbage bag, took a photograph of himself on his cellphone, and showered before surrendering at a police station. Authorities said Bennett appeared unaware at that time that his father had died.

Bennett’s attorney, William D. Crowe, emphasized his client’s significant history of mental health issues and noted that Bennett voluntarily turned himself in to law enforcement. Crowe did not contest the request to hold his client without bail and requested a determination on whether Bennett qualifies for a court-appointed attorney. The lawyer also described Bennett, who goes by the nickname “Trip,” as a former employee of a local bakery, Quebrada Baking Co., from which he resigned several weeks ago.

Family members of both the victim and the accused were present at the arraignment but declined to comment publicly. Crowe remarked that the family is grieving the loss of two members and maintains full support for Bennett.

The Phillips Park playground, where the attack occurred, remained quiet Friday, with no visitors present. Residents of the surrounding neighborhood, known for its large homes and tranquil streets, expressed sympathy for the Bennetts. Jane Neilson, who knows the family and whose daughters attended Wellesley High School with Bennett, remembered him as a kind young man and spoke to the challenges of mental health struggles in families.

The incident has further unsettled the Wellesley community, which recently endured the killings of two children, Ella and Kai MacAusland, in April. Their mother, Janette MacAusland, faces double murder charges in that case. A memorial for the MacAusland children remains near Phillips Park, where community members continue to process the trauma.

The Right Rev. Julia Whitworth, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, addressed the community’s grief, noting that faith plays a crucial role in helping people cope with such tragedies.

Wellesley, a suburb west of Boston known for its low crime rate, had not experienced a homicide since 1999 before this year. Amarely Gutiérrez Oliver, executive director of REAch Beyond Domestic Violence, cautioned that violence can occur in any community regardless of socioeconomic status and urged residents to remain vigilant. She highlighted the importance of community resources and encouraged individuals to seek help or report concerns, emphasizing that prevention is possible through awareness and support.

Bennett’s next court date is scheduled for July 10, when his presence is not required. The case remains under investigation, with a police report sealed by the court at the district attorney’s request.