Suspects identified in Somerville airsoft gun shootings; 1 victim was holding baby
SOMERVILLE - Somerville police are investigating four reported airsoft rifle shootings in the city in the past two days, and detectives say one victim was shot at while holding a baby.
"In each of the four incidents the suspects are described by witnesses as being approximately 13-15 years old, males, wearing masks in most incidents and riding bikes when they shot at victims," police told WBZ-TV.
Airsoft rifles can look like real guns, but fire plastic pellets at low power.
Police have identified two juveniles they say were involved in the airsoft assaults. "The parents are in the process of being notified and the Department is exploring jail diversion through the COHR Unit in lieu of criminal charges," Somerville police said.
Airsoft rifle shootings reported in Somerville
There were two airsoft rifle shootings reported in Somerville on Tuesday, with both victims receiving minor injuries. One victim was shot at Prospect Street and Somerville Avenue. The other was hit on the Community Path rail trail near Gilman and Walnut streets.
On Wednesday someone was shot in the eye; it's not yet known how serious their injury is. The victim holding the baby and another person were shot at a park by the Argenziano School, but there were no reported injuries.
Somerville police said they were looking for anyone with video footage of the shootings to contact investigators.
Somerville city councilor and parent J.T. Scott said he's sadly not surprised by the police reports, saying kids in the city are in dire need of resources. "There's been escalating with behavior with some of the kids," Scott said. "It's part of the reason why our Central Library is closed."
Parents and nannies who visit these parks often say they won't live in fear.
"The kids really like it here. It's a nice playground. There's a lot of space to play. I'll definitely be more aware and be more careful," Clara, a nanny, told WBZ-TV.
Tufts warned students of BB gun shootings to start school year
In August, Tufts University warned students about BB gun shootings nearby. They did not happen on campus, but Tufts police said people reported being shot at in Medford, Somerville and Brookline neighborhoods. Police said those victims were shot at when walking by a dark-colored vehicle.
It's not known yet if the most recent airsoft rifle shootings in Somerville are connected to any other incidents.