Springfield Man Arrested with Loaded Gun, 100 Heroin Bags

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — A Springfield man was arrested Friday after police discovered a loaded firearm and 100 bags of heroin in his possession, authorities said.

Ryan Walsh, a police spokesperson, stated that officers from the department’s C3 Unit spotted a reportedly stolen vehicle parked illegally in a no-parking zone on High Street around 6:35 p.m. The car was running, prompting officers to investigate further.

Upon approaching the vehicle, officers identified the driver as a local resident and conducted a search. They found a loaded gun and 100 small bags containing suspected heroin, Walsh said. The suspect was taken into custody without incident.

“The quick actions of our officers prevented a potentially dangerous situation,” Walsh said. “Recovering illegal drugs and firearms from our streets is a top priority.”

The suspect faces multiple charges, including illegal possession of a firearm, drug possession with intent to distribute, and receiving stolen property. He is expected to be arraigned in Springfield District Court early next week.

This arrest is part of an ongoing effort by the Springfield Police Department to combat drug trafficking and gun violence in the city. According to recent statistics, Springfield has seen a 12% increase in drug-related arrests this year compared to the same period in 2022.

Residents in the area expressed relief at the arrest. “It’s scary to think about what could have happened,” said Maria Gonzalez, a High Street resident. “I’m glad the police are doing their job to keep us safe.”