A man has been nabbed by the police following a reported shooting situation in New Bedford's North End, which quickly escalated from a hit-and-run to gunshots disrupting the Monday night calm.
The incident, which unfolded on April 1 at about 9:30 p.m., had officers racing to the Earle Street/Ashley Boulevard area after getting wind of both a collision and gunfire, during a period when Sgt. Andy Simmons was keeping his eyes on the neighborhood he saw the suspect's vehicle peel off and heard the unmistakable crack of bullets firing, though it should be noted that no injuries have been reported from this violent outburst.
In a swift response, Sgt. Jonathan Lagoa along with Detectives Matthew Sylvia and Emily Pacheco managed to stop the suspect's car as it tore away on Acushnet Avenue, cornering it at the Shaw Street intersection according to a detailed account from the New Bedford Police Department.
Police identified the driver as Jose Rivera Sanchez, 32, from Highland Street, who upon searching his vehicle was found with a loaded Polymer 80 firearm fitted with a 10-round magazine which aligns with the shell casings recovered at the shooting gallery and adding more, Sanchez held no license for the firearm he was packing.
Now in custody, Sanchez is facing multiple charges including illegal possession of a loaded, high-capacity firearm and ammunition, not to mention recklessly discharging it close to buildings—he's due for a court appearance for a dangerous hearing later this week.
Authorities are urging anyone with more information to make contact—guaranteeing anonymity—through an online tip-off at their website or a direct call to 508-99-CRIME.
