Five juveniles were arrested after Medford Police said a stolen vehicle suspect drove toward an officer, resulting in the officer discharging their firearm and ending a chase in Malden. Authorities said the incident began around 4:30 am on June 2 following a reported vehicle break-in in West Medford.
According to police, officers responded to Barbare Lane about the break-in and gathered information about the suspect vehicle. A description was broadcast to officers on patrol, who began searching the surrounding area.
A similar vehicle was later seen on Lincoln Road, prompting the officers to try to make contact with the drivers inside. However, it seems that the vehicle drove towards the officer in an attempt to hit them, causing them to begin shooting at the suspect’s car.
Despite sustaining significant front-end damage, police said the vehicle fled the scene and struck a parked car while escaping. Authorities added that the vehicle began smoking from the damage, but continued traveling through Medford.
Police Almost Hit During Pursuit in Medford
The incident escalated into a low-speed pursuit through Medford and into Malden, with assistance from Massachusetts State Police and Malden Police officers. Authorities ultimately stopped the vehicle and took five juvenile suspects into custody without further incident.
Investigators later determined that the vehicle had been reported stolen from Woburn the previous morning. Police have not announced whether the suspects are believed to be connected to additional thefts or break-ins.
A 17-year-old from Malden faces the most serious charges, including receiving a stolen motor vehicle, assault to murder, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, failure to stop, speeding, resisting arrest, marked lanes violations, and leaving the scene of property damage. Four additional juveniles, ranging from 14 to 16 years old and from Malden and Somerville, were charged with receiving a stolen motor vehicle, while one also had an outstanding warrant.
The Juveniles Face Heavy Potential Sentences
If convicted, the most serious charge of assault to murder in Massachusetts carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in state prison. Receiving a stolen motor vehicle can result in up to 15 years in prison, while resisting arrest may carry up to 2.5 years in jail and fines.
Negligent operation of a motor vehicle can result in up to two years in jail, fines, and license consequences depending on the circumstances. Failure to stop and leaving the scene of property damage can also carry fines, possible jail time, and license suspensions.
Police said three officers and one juvenile suspect were transported to area hospitals following the incident and have since been released. The officer who discharged their firearm has been placed on leave, which is standard procedure following an officer-involved shooting.
Reactions to Juveniles Almost Hitting Officer
Various commenters left their opinions in the replies below a video about the situation posted by José A. Rivera Adrovet of Telemundo Nueva Inglaterra. One commenter in particular spoke about how the suspects likely don’t want to grow up.
This person writes, “People just don’t give up. They’re afraid to grow up and stay straight. Violence doesn’t pay.” This same person made another comment that read, “I started in Woburn through Medford through Malden who knows dangerous people. I’m glad there were no kids around. That’s all I got to say.”
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the encounter and pursuit. All suspects are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.