Gunfire shattered the peace on Austin Street as police swiftly cuffed 38-year-old Christopher Smith, a local man suspected of a felonious afternoon shootout. In an event that shook up a normally quiet area, officers nabbed Smith after he allegedly opened fire, according to a Facebook post by the City of New Bedford Police Department.

The drama unfolded on Monday around 2:30 PM when police, drawn by the sound of bullets, zeroed in on the chaotic scene near County Street. A male victim, pierced by the violence, was rushed for emergency medical aid. Officers combing the vicinity spotted suspect Christopher Smith attempting to flee. He bolted on foot, but his escape attempt was short-lived, the City of New Bedford Police Department said.

Smith now faces a slew of charges, including assault with intent to murder by discharge of a firearm, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and illegally carrying a loaded firearm. The arrest was made by officers Roberto Dacunha and Muhammad Mir, who discovered a firearm following Smith's apprehension.

This isn't Smith's first brush with law enforcement. His rap sheet is long and varied—he was previously clinked for a stretch of 4-6 years back in 2016 after a conviction for kidnapping, breaking and entering and strangulation, the police department revealed.

"I commend the exceptional dedication and continued bravery of our officers for swiftly apprehending a suspect in connection to a recent shooting," Chief Paul Oliveira weighed in, according to the police department. In his praise for the quick action that led to a perilous weapon being seized from the streets, he celebrated the local force's dedication to public safety.

Authorities urge anyone with information about this or any other crime to come forward. Informants can remain cloaked in anonymity by dialing 508-99-CRIME or visiting the department's website to leave anonymous tips.