A routine fender bender in a Southbridge shopping plaza parking lot escalated when a man allegedly brandished a gun at a woman who had accidentally hit his car door last Wednesday. The Southbridge Police Department reported that the incident occurred around 12:18 p.m. and resulted in the arrest of 25-year-old Devin J. Dodge after a regional law enforcement effort.
The situation began when a woman, exiting her vehicle, unintentionally struck the door of an adjacent car. She described to authorities how the car's owner, later identified as Dodge, confronted her and during the argument, allegedly revealed a firearm concealed in his waistband. The frightened woman sought refuge and dialed 911. The police were prompted to immediately issue a BOLO alert for Dodge's vehicle. According to a statement obtained by Southbridge PD on Facebook, their quick response led to a successful interception of Dodge on Number 6 School House Road in Charlton, MA.
Charlton Police Department officers made the initial stop, soon assisted by members of the Dudley Police Department, and Southbridge detectives and officers. In a subsequent investigation, Dodge admitted to being involved in the dispute. Surveillance footage from the plaza confirmed his involvement, and a loaded firearm was found concealed in the air filter compartment of his vehicle.
As a result, Dodge now faces multiple charges: assault with a dangerous weapon (handgun), possession of a firearm without a license, unlawful possession of ammunition, and having an untraceable firearm. Following his arrest, Dodge was brought to police headquarters to be processed. He is set to be arraigned in Dudley District Court.
