Two from Rhode Island arrested in Massachusetts after 100+ attack police cruisers, throw fireworks

Two teens from Rhode Island are facing multiple charges after a large crowd allegedly attacked police cruisers in Massachusetts.

According to Boston Police, at approximately 2:12 a.m. on Sunday, officers assigned to District D-4 (South End) responded to a report of a large-scale vehicle takeover at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Tremont Street.

“Upon arrival, responding officers encountered a crowd of more than 100 individuals who immediately began attacking marked Boston Police cruisers by throwing fireworks, cones, poles, and other objects. Several vehicles had also been used to block the intersection, preventing normal traffic flow. One marked Boston Police cruiser sustained extensive damage after being repeatedly struck with fireworks, causing smoke and fire inside the vehicle. At one point, members of the crowd jumped onto the hood of the cruiser, further endangering officers.

“Additional units from across the city were dispatched to assist, and officers began dispersing the violent crowd using department-issued equipment. The Boston Fire Department responded to extinguish flames after fireworks ignited the cruiser, which was ultimately destroyed by fire and later towed from the scene.

“During the incident, officers arrested two individuals:

“Julian Bowers, 18, of Cumberland, Rhode Island, was placed under arrest after being observed throwing objects at officers and their cruiser. Following a foot pursuit, Bowers was taken into custody on charges of:

Malicious Destruction of Property Over $1200

Disorderly Conduct

Assault and Battery on a Police Officer

Resisting Arrest

“William Cantwell, 19, of Warwick, Rhode Island, was placed under arrest after being observed repeatedly striking a cruiser with an orange pole. Following a brief struggle, Cantwell was taken into custody. A search of his bag resulted in the recovery of two packages of marijuana edibles. Cantwell faces charges of:

Malicious Destruction of Property Over $1200

Disorderly Conduct

Assault and Battery on a Police Officer

Resisting Arrest

Possession of Class D, Marijuana

“The seized items were logged as evidence. Crime Scene Response and Fire Investigation units responded to document the incident.

“Both suspects are expected to be arraigned in Roxbury District Court.

“Detectives assigned to District D-4 are actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding these incidents. Anyone with information is strongly urged to contact District D-4 Detectives at (617) 343-4683.

“Community members wishing to provide information anonymously may do so via the CrimeStoppers Tip Line:

By Phone: 1-800-494-TIPS

By Text: Text the word “TIP” to CRIME (27463)

Online: Submit a tip via Boston Police CrimeStoppers

“Photos and videos related to this investigation may also be submitted anonymously.”