A 23-year-old Brockton, Massachusetts man, John Lazare, has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including assault and battery with a firearm, armed robbery, and assault with a dangerous weapon, following a shooting incident involving a Boston police officer. The incident unfolded Friday night, June 9th, around 9:15 p.m., when the officer reportedly observed Lazare robbing a delivery driver. The officer recognized Lazare from a similar robbery of a Domino's Pizza delivery driver on the same street just two days prior.
Upon confronting the suspect, Lazare allegedly fired multiple shots at the officer. Following the shooting, Lazare attempted to flee by entering a nearby store and climbing onto the roof of a building. He subsequently jumped from the roof into an alleyway, injuring his leg in the process. The injured officer called for backup, and responding officers apprehended Lazare. The officer was transported to Boston Medical Center with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and is expected to recover. His identity has not been publicly released.
During a Saturday press conference, Police Commissioner Michael Cox expressed his dismay at the incident, stating, "This is another example of people who have no respect for life in any way shape or form." Massachusetts State Police Superintendent Colonel Jack Mawn also issued a statement praising the officer's bravery and highlighting the inherent dangers of police work. Mawn emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to ensuring public safety, noting, "When they hurt, we hurt. Policing is a dangerous job."
He cited statistics indicating that since May 31, 2023, 166 officers have been shot in the line of duty nationwide, with 20 fatalities. Mawn expressed gratitude for the service of law enforcement officers and urged them to prioritize their safety and well-being.
