BOSTON — Two Rhode Island men were arrested early Sunday morning after a crowd of more than 100 people attacked Boston police cruisers with fireworks and other objects during a vehicle takeover incident in the South End.
Officers responded to a report of the large-scale vehicle takeover at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Tremont Street at approximately 2:12 a.m. Oct. 5.
Upon arrival, the crowd immediately began attacking marked Boston Police cruisers by throwing fireworks, cones, poles and other objects.
Several vehicles had been used to block the intersection, preventing normal traffic flow.
One marked Boston Police cruiser sustained extensive damage after being repeatedly struck with fireworks, causing smoke and fire inside the vehicle.
Members of the crowd jumped onto the hood of the cruiser, further endangering officers.
Additional units from across the city were dispatched to assist, and officers began dispersing the violent crowd using department-issued equipment.
The Boston Fire Department responded to extinguish flames after fireworks ignited the cruiser, which was ultimately destroyed by fire and later towed from the scene.
Julian Bowers, 18, of Cumberland, Rhode Island, was arrested after being observed throwing objects at officers and their cruiser.
Following a foot pursuit, Bowers was taken into custody on charges of malicious destruction of property over $1,200, disorderly conduct, assault and battery on a police officer and resisting arrest.
William Cantwell, 19, of Warwick, Rhode Island, was arrested after being observed repeatedly striking a cruiser with an orange pole.
Following a brief struggle, Cantwell was taken into custody.
A search of his bag resulted in the recovery of two packages of marijuana edibles.
Cantwell faces charges of malicious destruction of property over $1,200, disorderly conduct, assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest and possession of Class D marijuana.
Both suspects are expected to be arraigned in Roxbury District Court.
Detectives assigned to District D-4 are actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident.
