SPD Officers Seize Loaded Firearm after ShotSpotter Activation
Springfield, Mass. — On Sunday June 23rd at approximately 3:00 a.m. Springfield Police Officers seized a loaded firearm and 34-year-old Fatiah Garland on East Columbus Avenue near Liberty Street.
Around 2:30 a.m. officers responded to the 100 block of Chestnut Street for a ShotSpotter activation. Officers did not locate any victims or property damage.
Members of the Springfield Police Real Time Analysis Center (R-TAC) reviewed cameras and informed officers of a suspect vehicle that may have been involved in the shooting and was currently on Hampden Street. Officers approached the vehicle which had three occupants. With the occupants outside of the car, officers searched the vehicle and located a loaded firearm in the front passenger door.
At this time the front seat passenger, Fatiah Garland, began walking then running away. After a foot pursuit, Garland was taken into custody on East Columbus Avenue and placed under arrest.
Garland has prior convictions for possession of a firearm and armed assault with intent to murder.
34-year-old Fatiah Garland of Springfield is charged with:
- Carrying a Firearm without a License – 2nd Offense
- Possession of a High-Capacity Magazine/Feeding Device
- Carrying a Loaded Firearm without a License
- Firearm Violation with 1 Prior Violent/Drug Crime
