Nathaniel Fujita, 18, of Wayland was ordered held without bail by Framingham District Court Judge Robert Greco Tuesday afternoon, following Fujita’s arrest on the charge of murdering his former girlfriend, Lauren Astley, also 18.

Astley's body was found in a marshy area of Water Row in Wayland on the morning of July 4.

Fujita stood in court wearing an orange Wayland football T-shirt and black shorts, with his hands cuffed in front of him. A plea of not guilty was entered on his behalf.

Family members of both Fujita and Astley attended the arraignment, and Astley’s father, Malcolm, issued a statement to the media following the arraignment. Lauren Astley was set to attend Elon University in the fall. 

According to the Weston Friendly Society of the Performing Art's Facebook page, Astley had performed as the title role in a production of "Annie" several years ago.

Wayland Patch is following the story closely. Read more about the DA's confirmation that the body found was indeed Astley's; Fujita's arrest; and Fujita's arraignment today in Framingham District Court.