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Springfield police recover weapons, three dozen car keys after shooting at officers

1 min read

SPRINGFIELD — In a dangerous encounter on Thursday evening, undercover detectives from the Springfield Police Firearms Investigation Unit came under fire while conducting surveillance on Fernald Street.

At around 7 p.m., two individuals emerged from a residence and shot at the officers’ unmarked car.

Although the vehicle was hit, no officers sustained injuries.

Following the shooting, detectives observed a truck speeding away from the scene.

The truck evaded officers, but another vehicle connected to the Fernald Street address was spotted.

The driver of this stolen car led police on a high-speed chase before crashing at the intersection of Fox Road and Grayson Drive.

The occupants fled on foot.

For over two hours, Springfield Police, with the aid of K9 units, drone surveillance, and the Massachusetts State Police Air Wing, conducted an extensive search.

Several individuals were detained, identified, and subsequently released.

Police Superintendent Lawrence E. Akers expressed relief that the officers were unharmed and condemned the suspects’ disregard for life, while Mayor Domenic J. Sarno praised the police for their swift response and dedication.

Both officials assured that those responsible would face justice.

Later that evening, around 11:30 p.m., detectives followed a lead to a home on the 0-100 block of Lancaster Street where they apprehended Christopher O’Bara, a suspect from the crashed vehicle.

A search of the residence yielded a large-capacity firearm, ammunition, and over 30 keys or key fobs suspected to be stolen, along with other stolen items.

Further investigations led to the recovery of a second firearm at the Fernald Street home and a third firearm near Jennings Street, close to where the search operation took place.

In addition to O’Bara’s arrest, 63-year-old Howard Singletary, found inside the Fernald Street residence, was arrested on active warrants for assault with a dangerous weapon and property destruction.

O’Bara faces multiple charges, including illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, while Singletary’s charges relate to his prior warrants.

The Springfield Police Detective Bureau and Firearms Investigation Unit are continuing their inquiry into this series of events.

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