- A gunman opened fire on drivers in Cambridge, Massachusetts, critically injuring two men on Monday afternoon.
- The suspect, 46-year-old Tyler Brown, allegedly fired 50 to 60 rounds along Memorial Drive.
- Massachusetts State Police and an armed civilian confronted and shot Brown, stopping the attack before he was taken into custody.
CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS — A busy Massachusetts roadway turned into a scene of panic Monday afternoon after authorities say a rifle-wielding gunman opened fire on random cars, leaving 2 men critically injured. The shooting adds to other public gun violence cases where surveillance evidence became central, including one where surveillance footage contradicted a suspect’s claim after a fatal Sheetz parking lot shooting.
The suspect was identified as 46-year-old Tyler Brown of Boston. Authorities said Brown allegedly fired dozens of rounds along Memorial Drive in Cambridge while drivers and passengers scrambled for cover.
The shooting happened shortly after 1 p.m. between River Street and Pleasant Street Extension, according to Cambridge police. Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan said there was no indication Brown was targeting specific people.
Gunfire Erupts on Memorial Drive
Authorities said Cambridge police first received information from Boston police that a man acting erratically and carrying a rifle was in Cambridge.
When officers arrived, Brown was allegedly firing at stopped vehicles on Memorial Drive. Officials said he fired an estimated 50 to 60 rounds during the incident.
Two men in separate vehicles were struck by gunfire and rushed to Boston hospitals with life-threatening injuries.
Trooper and Armed Civilian Stop Suspect
As people fled from their cars, a Massachusetts State Police trooper and an armed civilian described in reports as a Marine veteran confronted Brown.
Authorities said the trooper and the civilian fired at Brown, striking him and stopping the attack. Brown was treated at the scene before being taken to a hospital with gunshot wounds.
Officials said he remained in custody while receiving medical care.
Witnesses Describe Chaos
Witnesses described a terrifying scene as bullets struck vehicles and drivers abandoned their cars to escape.
One driver told local media he ducked behind his dashboard after seeing the gunman raise the weapon toward him. Others ran from their vehicles as officers moved in and exchanged gunfire with the suspect.
Several police cruisers remained on Memorial Drive into the evening as investigators processed the scene and blocked traffic in the area.
Suspect’s Criminal History Under Review
Authorities said Brown has a lengthy criminal history. Local reports said he had previously been charged in connection with a 2020 shootout involving Boston police officers.
Brown was reportedly scheduled to meet with his parole officer on Monday before the Cambridge shooting. Law enforcement sources told local outlets that Boston police had tried to locate him at his Dorchester residence earlier that day after concerns were raised about his well-being.
Charges Expected
Brown is expected to face several charges, including armed assault with intent to murder and criminal possession of a weapon.
Officials said there was no ongoing danger to the public after Brown was taken into custody. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey said she was monitoring the situation and thanked first responders for securing the scene.
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