Florida resident Joshua Pavao's alleged spray of gunfire at a home in East Providence prompted a high-speed police chase and led to his arrest. The 43-year-old faced a judge on Monday and was charged with multiple counts, including possession of a large-capacity feeding device. In total, Pavao faces more than 100 charges, according to a press release by the WPRI.
According to the police, Pavao stored over a thousand rounds of ammunition and several firearms in his vehicle's trunk. During the chase, he also discarded a backpack filled with guns. These firearms and ammunition posed a real threat to public safety in the area.
In court, Pavao didn't enter any pleas and was held on $100,000 bail. The judge ordered Pavao, who resides with a parent in Kissimmee, Florida, to surrender all firearms and his passport. Pavao is not allowed to return to Florida unless he adheres to pre-trial conditions as reported by WPRI. It appears the East Providence Police Department uncovered an extensive arsenal in Pavao's possession.
The eventful pursuit ended with Pavao's car crashing, spilling bullets and cartridges onto the street, a fact given by the Associated Press. He then left his vehicle, attempting to flee on foot before being apprehended by the police.
Locals are nervous following the incident. Resident Aaron Wazlavek, who captured part of the pursuit on his home security system, and East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva expressed their concerns about the potential for a mass casualty event due to Pavao's actions and the relatively low bail.
Pavao has not posted bail as of yet. The incident is a harrowing showcase of the risks associated with access to extensive weaponry and dangerous conduct. Police Chief Christopher Francesconi labeled the situation extremely volatile, emphasizing the danger the suspect presented to residents and officers alike in his statement to NECN.
