Friday, April 26, 2024

A statement issued Tuesday by Cambridge’s police commissioner, two days after a drive-by shooting left one girl dead and another in critical condition, seeks to reassure the victims’ Wellington-Harrington neighborhood — and confirm what neighbors and witnesses have been saying:

“At this point in the investigation, every indication is that this was not a random act. However, it appears the victims happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time,” Commissioner Robert Haas  said, using the same language used by residents since the 8 p.m. shooting that killed Charlene Holmes, 16, and injured Thanialee Cotto, 17.

“Our condolences go out to the families of the victims. They have shown remarkable strength and courage and we are in close contact with them as we focus on bringing the perpetrators to justice,” Haas said. “We recognize that this is an extremely difficult and emotional time and many people have questions. I want to assure residents that if we receive any indication that the safety of the neighborhood is in jeopardy, we will not hesitate to share that information with the community.”

Any additional information will be released by the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office, the lead agency investigating the incident, he said, although he reiterated that city police were willing and hopeful people would come forward with more information about the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cambridge Police at (617) 349-3300 or State Police at (781) 897-6600. Information on how to submit anonymous tips via e-mail, text message or via a 24-hour anonymous hotline can be found here.