Fall River man in serious condition after being shot in the face with flare gun

Fall River Police are reporting that a city man was seriously injured in a flare gun shooting this afternoon.

According to Sergeant J.T. Hoar, on Tuesday September 25 at approximately 3:26 p.m., Fall River Police responded to 42 Tecumseh Street for a report of shots fired. The caller stated that a male had been shot in the face with a flare gun. Officers responded and identified the victim as 23 year old Joshua Oliver. He had suffered a single wound to the forehead and was conscious. Oliver was immediately transported to Rhode Island Hospital for further treatment. He remains there in stable but serious condition.

Officers Keith Pires and Keith Custadio of the Uniform Division lead the investigation assisted by Detectives from the Major Crimes Division. After speaking with witnesses, it was determined there was an argument between Oliver and a male identified as 24 year old Rajheem Chardonette. The argument was possibly regarding their gang affiliations. During the argument, Chardonette pointed a flare gun at Oliver and discharged a single flare round striking him in the forehead.

Chardonette was later located and taken into custody. The investigation continues to determine a better understanding of the events that unfolded this evening. Chardonette was initially booked on the charge of “Armed Assault with Intent to Murder” and he will be arraigned on Wednesday.