
A “violent crowd” of over 100 people attacked Boston police cruisers with fireworks, cones, poles and other objects overnight, resulting in two arrests.
Shortly after 2 a.m. on Sunday, officers responded to a report of a “large-scale vehicle takeover” at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Tremont Street. When they arrived, they encountered a crowd of over 100 people, who they said started attacking marked Boston police cruisers by throwing fireworks, cones, poles and other objects.
Several vehicles had also been used to block the intersection, preventing traffic from flowing through the area.
One marked Boston police cruiser sustained extensive damage after being repeatedly banger with fireworks, causing smoke and fire inside the vehicle. At one point, members of the crowd even jumped onto the hood of the cruiser.
More officers from across the city were called in to help out, and the officers began dispersing the crowd using what they described only as “department-issued equipment.” The fire department also responded to extinguish the fire in the burning cruiser, which was ultimately destroyed by the fire and had to be towed from the scene.
Police said two Rhode Island residents were arrested during the incident.
Julian Bowers, 18, of Cumberland, was arrested after being seen throwing objects at officers and their cruiser. Following a foot pursuit, they were taken into custody on charges of malicious destruction of property over $1,200, disorderly conduct, assault and battery on a police officer and resisting arrest.
William Cantwell, 19, of West Warwick, was arrested after being seen repeatedly striking a cruiser with an orange pole. Following a brief struggle, he was taken into custody. Police said two packages of marijuana edibles were found in his bag. He was charged with malicious destruction of property over $1,200, disorderly conduct, assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest and marijuana possession.
Both suspects are expected to be arraigned in Roxbury District Court at a later date.
Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact detectives at 617-343-4683. Anonymous tips can also be provided to the CrimeStoppers Tip Line by calling 1-800-494-TIPS, texting the word “TIP” to 27463 or online. Photos and videos related to the investigation may also be submitted anonymously.