— Photos by Bobbie Toner

On Tuesday, February 15, at approximately 1:17 p.m., the Somerville Police Department responded to numerous 911 calls for multiple shots fired in the area of Mystic Avenue and within the Mystic Housing Development.
Police learned that at least two groups of males were involved in a shooting incident within the Mystic Housing Development. A witness provided a description of a vehicle that fled the scene; a description was broadcasted to surrounding police jurisdictions. Somerville Police, along with the State Police conducted an extensive search of the immediate area. One firearm was recovered. One individual who is believed to have been involved in this incident, was located near the Healy School and apprehended.

A short time later, a Medford Police Officer located the fleeing vehicle in Cambridge. Two of the four occupants fled; the Medford Officer was able to detain two others until Cambridge Police arrived. The vehicle was determined to have been stolen in Boston. Cambridge Police placed the two individuals in custody for Receiving Stolen Property who will be questioned regarding the Somerville shooting.

It is not clear whether the individuals are known to each other. Nor is the motive for the incident determined at this time. Police Chief Charles Femino stated he will be deploying additional resources in the area and would like to commend his officers who demonstrated a calm and professional manner throughout this incident.

Although we believe there is no ongoing threat to the immediate area, we ask residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to the Somerville Police Department. If there is an immediate threat to public safety, please call 911 for an immediate response. For non-emergency reports, please call 617-625-1600 ext. 7226.

The City of Somerville and Somerville Police are committed to keeping our community safe. We also understand that violent incidents can be traumatizing and unsettling. If you need someone to talk to or help accessing resources, please call the Trauma Response Network at 857-221-0942.