"Not welcome here": Boston leaders blast crowd that torched police cruiser
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Boston police say a crowd of over 100 people hurled fireworks, cones and poles at a police cruiser in the South End early Sunday.
Between the lines: The mass confrontation was a rare scene that quickly spread through social media, with local officials condemning the "outside individuals" involved and "lawlessness."
- It also comes as Boston has faced scrutiny by conservatives and the Trump administration.
Catch up quick: Police described a "large-scale vehicle takeover" unfolding around 2am Sunday around Massachusetts Avenue and Tremont Street, according to Axios Boston's partner, CBS Boston.
- Police said cars had been used to block the intersection, disrupting the flow of traffic.
- Some people jumped onto the hood of the cruiser, which was set ablaze from the fireworks, police said.
- A similar scene unfolded around the same time in Randolph. It is unclear whether there's any connection between the two incidents.
State of play: Boston police arrested two people Sunday morning: Julian Bowers, 18, of Cumberland, Rhode Island, and William Cantwell, 19, from Warwick, Rhode Island.
- Police say Bowers threw objects at officers and the cruiser. He was arrested on charges of malicious destruction of property over $1,200, disorderly conduct, assault and battery on a police officer and resisting arrest.
- Cantwell was arrested on the same charges, but he also faces a marijuana possession charge after police found two packages of edibles in his bag. (The legal age for cannabis use is 21 in Massachusetts.)
What they're saying: "The outside individuals who brought dangerous and disorderly conduct into Boston last night will be prosecuted and held fully accountable for their actions," Mayor Michelle Wu said in a statement.
- "These groups are not welcome here and will face serious consequences."
- "There shouldn't be any tolerance for this type of behavior," Larry Calderone, president of the Boston Police Patrolmen's Association, told Axios.
- City Councilor Ed Flynn called for authorities to prosecute those involved and, if convicted, impose a state sentence.
What's next: Bowers and Cantwell are expected to be arraigned on Monday in district court.
- Police asked the public to call detectives at 617-343-4683 if they have information.
- They accept anonymous tips through CrimeStoppers: Call 1-800-494-TIPS or text "TIP" to 27463.