Fugitive arrested on drug charge in West Springfield

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA — A Springfield man wanted on multiple warrants was arrested and found with methamphetamine, police said.

Rafael Urena-Mendez, 32, of Springfield, was arrested March 25, 2026, in the area of 864 Riverdale Street by members of the West Springfield Police Department Narcotics Unit working with federal law enforcement partners.

Investigators received information that a fugitive was traveling to West Springfield.

Officers identified Urena-Mendez as he arrived at the location in a rideshare vehicle and took him into custody without incident.

During the arrest, officers seized approximately 15.9 grams of methamphetamine from his possession.

Urena-Mendez was wanted on five outstanding warrants out of Springfield District Court and is also wanted for extradition by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office in Florida.

He is facing charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and fugitive from justice on court warrant.