NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — A quiet early morning in downtown New Bedford was shattered by gunfire as at least 18 shots rang out at the intersection of Russell and Pleasant Streets in what authorities are calling a brazen act of violence. The incident, which occurred around 1:27 a.m. on Monday, May 5, prompted a swift and extensive response from the New Bedford Police Department, after multiple 911 calls and automatic ShotSpotter alerts were triggered in the area.
According to the New Bedford Police Department (Official), officers arrived at the scene within minutes of the alerts and found a vehicle riddled with bullet holes, sitting near the curb, apparently disabled by the gunfire. The immediate area around the car was strewn with at least 18 shell casings, marking a high-volume shooting that investigators believe may have involved multiple firearms.
No Victims Found at the Scene
Despite the intensity of the gunfire and the damage to the vehicle, no victims were located at the scene. Authorities say it is unclear at this time whether anyone was struck by the bullets, and they are investigating whether any individuals involved may have been transported to local hospitals by private vehicle or fled the area on foot.
Police have canvassed area hospitals to determine if anyone sought treatment for gunshot wounds, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward. In the meantime, investigators have closed off a section of the street to comb through evidence, document ballistic trajectories, and collect surveillance footage from surrounding businesses and residences.
Community Impact and Response
The shooting has left residents in the area rattled and frustrated. Russell and Pleasant Streets are part of a bustling commercial and residential district, and many neighbors reported being jolted awake by the sound of rapid gunfire.
“It was like a war zone out there,” said one nearby resident who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons. “I heard pop-pop-pop, at least 15 to 20 times. I hit the floor. This is getting too close to home.”
The neighborhood, which includes homes, restaurants, and small businesses, has seen its share of violence in the past, but many residents say the scale of this shooting was particularly alarming.
Investigation Ongoing
New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira addressed the public Monday morning, emphasizing that the department is committed to finding those responsible.
“This level of gunfire in a densely populated area is unacceptable,” said Chief Oliveira. “We are treating this investigation with the highest urgency and are working closely with our state and federal partners to determine who was involved and what led to this shooting.”
So far, police have not confirmed any arrests or publicly identified any suspects. However, officials believe that the shooting may have been targeted, possibly linked to an ongoing dispute between individuals or groups. Forensic experts are currently analyzing the shell casings to determine the types of firearms used, and detectives are reviewing digital surveillance footage from nearby cameras.
Call for Public Help
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the shooting, seen suspicious activity around the time of the incident, or has information that could aid in the investigation to contact the New Bedford Police Department Detective Division at (508) 991-6300, ext. 79519. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Tip411 or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI, should federal involvement become necessary.
“We cannot do this alone,” said Chief Oliveira. “The public’s cooperation is essential in ensuring our neighborhoods remain safe.”
Increased Patrols and Reassurance
In response to the shooting, the department has increased patrols in the downtown and near North End areas of the city. Officers are conducting extra checks and maintaining a visible presence in known hot spots in an effort to deter further violence and reassure residents.
City leaders, including Mayor Jon Mitchell, issued statements condemning the violence and pledging continued support for public safety efforts.
“Gun violence has no place in our community,” Mayor Mitchell stated. “We will do everything in our power to bring those responsible to justice and ensure the safety of our neighborhoods.”
No Responses