Police intervention led to the apprehension of a 20-year-old suspect following a series of events that began with the theft of a vehicle in New Bedford's south end. According to a social media post by the City of New Bedford Police Department (Official), a stolen Kia Optima, reported just before midnight this past Saturday, was located approximately an hour later. An ensuing pursuit resulted in the vehicle colliding with a police cruiser, at which point two male suspects fled on foot.
One suspect, later identified as Nasir Valera, was spotted near the New Bedford District Court parking lot. In the pursuit that followed, Officer Cameron Patota managed to ultimately apprehend Valera on N. Sixth St. During the chase, Valera had reportedly discarded a .38 caliber revolver with six rounds of ammunition, later found on the ground by the officers.
The New Bedford Police Department confirmed, "VALERA was transported to headquarters and charged with larceny of a motor vehicle and carrying a loaded firearm without a license." The whereabouts or identity of the second individual involved in the incident continues to be under investigation.
The police urge anyone with information regarding the second suspect to come forward to assist the investigation. Tips can be anonymously submitted by visiting newbedfordpd.com, or by calling 508-99-CRIME.
