Southern Massachusetts teen faces list of charges after grabbing officer’s gun during struggle following Seekonk motorcycle crash

A Massachusetts teen is facing a list of charges after a tussle with authorities discharged a firearm after a Bristol County motorcycle crash.

According to Seekonk Police, on Thursday, at just before 12:30 p.m., multiple police units were dispatched to the area of 178 Central Avenue (Rt. 152) for a report of a motor vehicle crash involving a motorcycle.

Upon arrival, officers determined that the motorcycle had rear-ended a sedan that was stopped in the roadway. Although there were no initial reports of obvious injuries, Seekonk Fire/Rescue was dispatched due to the nature of the crash.

While the motorcycle operator was being medically evaluated in the rear of an ambulance, officers determined that he had provided false information during the course of their investigation. Shortly thereafter, the male suspect, 19-year-old Nathaniel A. Cronin of Falmouth, fled from the rear of the ambulance, prompting officers to pursue on foot.

Cronin was located on nearby Edwards Avenue in the area of Foch Avenue. As officers attempted to take him into custody, an altercation ensued, resulting in a struggle in the roadway. During the struggle, Cronin allegedly managed to grab an officer’s firearm and partially remove it from its holster. One round was discharged, however, no one was struck by the bullet. Officers were ultimately able to gain control of Cronin and take him into custody.

Cronin was charged with:

1. A&B Attempt to Disarm Police Officer
2. A&B on Police Officer (x2)
3. Attempted A&B by Discharging Firearm
4. Discharge Firearm within 500ft of Dwelling
5. Trespass
6. Disturbing the Peace
7. Disorderly Conduct
8. Vandalize Property
9. Resist Arrest
10. Operate MV, Suspended License
11. False Name to Police Officer
12. Attaching Wrong MV Plate
13. Unregistered MV
14. Uninsured MV

The incident remains under investigation, and additional charges are possible.