‘Terrifying’: Young man accused of opening fire on undercover police officer in Boston

BOSTON — A Boston police officer is being credited for his professionalism and calmness after a man walked up to his unmarked police car and opened fire several times, hitting the officer’s car, but missing the police officer who then called in the assault.

Alberto Polanco, 20, of Roxbury, was arraigned Monday in Roxbury District Court on firearm and assault charges in connection with the alleged incident, which unfolded shortly after 6:00 p.m. Sunday night.

Investigators say the plainclothes officer was conducting an investigation at 43 Waumbeck Street, not far from the Trotter School playground, when Polanco approached and shot at him.

“The officer was approached by a suspect who fired multiple rounds at the officer, striking the officer’s vehicle twice,” said Superintendent Felipe Colon.

“The officer, who thankfully was not injured from the gunfire - physically - and who did not return gunfire toward the suspect, broadcasted a detailed description of the suspect,” said Colon. “Additional officers responded to the scene, then search and located the suspect, who was ultimately placed under arrest.”

“This is another example of some of the bravery that our officers meet every single day in the challenges of doing police work. I am so happy that the officer wasn’t hurt,” said Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox during a news conference Sunday night. “I just want to thank him for his bravery, for his calmness, and just overall terrific professionalism in the face of this kind of danger.”

Superintendent Colon described the incident as “terrifying.”

“The professionalism exhibited by this officer, to maintain his composure and broadcast a detailed description of the suspect, which led to the removal of a dangerous individual from the streets.

During the arraignment, Polanco’s attorney claimed his client was also shot at and requested additional evidence on the incident.

Polanco is due back in court for a dangerousness hearing on Thursday.

An investigation remains ongoing.

BPD confirms arrest made after spray of gunfire at Waumbeck & Humboldt Ave near Trotter Elementary School in Roxbury. Unclear if anyone was hurt but at least one vehicle apparently struck by bullet #Boston25 pic.twitter.com/ZESA8qz9cN
— Drew Karedes (@DrewKaredes) September 25, 2022