From BPD News:
About 12:39am on Saturday February 24, 2018, members of the Youth Violence Strike Force were on patrol in the area of Columbia Road and Hancock Street when they observed an individual crossing the road and moving in such a way as if to suggest he was in possession of a weapon. Specifically, officers observed the individual clutching and grabbing at an object in his waist area. Moreover, the suspect was seen repeatedly looking over his shoulder and moving in a way that suggested increased levels of anxiety and unease. When officers pulled up next to the individual, the individual, upon seeing the officers, took off running. While trailing behind the suspect, officers observed the suspect scale a fence leading to the roof of the Boston Pizza Grill located at 535 Columbia Road. After gaining access to the roof, officers were able to apprehend the suspect. However, a search of the suspect for weapons proved unsuccessful.
Believing the suspect may have tossed the firearm onto the roof of the adjacent Strand Theatre, which is located at 543 Columbia Road, the Boston Fire Department was called to the scene to help officers gain access to the roof of the Strand. With the help of Ladder Truck #7, officers were able to gain access to the roof where they located and recovered a gray-colored firearm. When asked to produce a license to carry, the suspect stated, “I don’t need one.
Officers arrested Michael Lopes, 26, of Boston and charged him with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition and Carrying a Loaded Firearm on a Public Way.
The suspect is scheduled to be arraigned in Dorchester District Court on Monday, February 26, 2018.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.