Chief of Police Peter Bartlett reports that Dracut Police are investigating several incidents in which someone shot a BB gun at passing motor vehicles and apartments in the area of Nashua Road.

On Saturday, July 15, at about 9:45 p.m., Dracut Police were called to the area of 760 Nashua Road for a report that a vehicle had been struck by BB pellets. 

The driver reported their vehicle was struck twice in the same area, once while travelling toward Tyngsborough and again as they travelled back into Dracut. The driver was struck in the hand by one of the BBs, and suffered a minor injury. The caller declined medical attention. 

Subsequently, Dracut Police received three reports of vehicles being struck by BB pellets while travelling through the same area of Nashua Road at about the same time as the first reported incident. No one was injured. 

Police searched the area but were unable to find any suspects.

On Sunday, July 16, at approximately 2 a.m., Dracut Police were contacted by two residents of 808 Nashua Road who reported that their apartments were struck by BB pellets.

A sliding glass door, storm door, and window were damaged in one apartment. The other apartment was not damaged.

Police again searched the area but were unable to locate any suspects.

Dracut Police continue to investigate this matter, and are asking any member of the public who has information to contact Dracut Police at 978-957-2123.

Chief of Police Peter Bartlett and Fire Chief Richard Patterson wish to share several important safety tips and reminders as residents prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday.

According to the state Department of Fire Services and State Police, Massachusetts fire departments reported nearly 1,000 fires related to illegal fireworks between 2013 and 2022. In addition to the 42 fire service injuries, five civilian injuries, and $2.5 million in damages attributed to these fires, Massachusetts medical facilities reported about 30 severe burn injuries extending to 5% or more of the victims’ bodies that were caused by illegal fireworks. In 2022 alone, fire departments reported 106 fires and explosions attributed to fireworks, an increase of nearly a third over the prior year.

It is illegal for private citizens to use, possess, or sell fireworks of all kinds in Massachusetts without a license and a permit. This includes fireworks purchased legally elsewhere and brought into Massachusetts. It includes sparklers, firecrackers, cherry bombs, and other fireworks. Fines range from $10 to $1,000, and some violations could carry a one-year prison sentence. Any fireworks discovered by police will also be confiscated and safely destroyed.

Residents are encouraged to report any misuse of fireworks they notice in the community to the Dracut Police Department by calling 978-957-2123. Residents are asked to NOT call 911 to report fireworks usage, as the 911 line should be reserved for major emergencies.

Additionally, residents are reminded of these key safety tips for Fourth of July celebrations:

• Attend organized and permitted fireworks displays only.
• Report illegal fires to the police.
• Remember that alcohol/drugs and fireworks do not mix.
• Keep pets indoors and away from fireworks. The loud noises and flashing lights can be frightening and overwhelming for pets. Pets can become frightened and run from familiar environments and people, becoming lost. Read more here.

The departments also urge residents to observe the following tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on getting home safely following Fourth of July celebrations:

• Be mindful of pedestrians.
• Always wear your seatbelt.
• Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. From 2017 to 2021, 1,460 drivers were killed in motor vehicle crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period — 38% of the drivers killed were drunk.
• Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, do not plan on driving. Instead, designate a sober driver or use a ride-share service to get home safely.
• Take keys away from individuals who are under the influence and are planning to drive. Alcohol and drugs impair perception, judgment, motor skills, and memory, which are critical for safe and responsible driving.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, safely pull over and call 911.

Chief Peter Bartlett is pleased to report that the Dracut Police Department will host a Public Safety Night for community members to have an opportunity to meet Dracut Police officers and command staff while also enjoying games, music, ice cream and a town-sponsored fireworks display. 

WHEN:

Thursday, June 29, from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

WHERE:

Veterans Memorial Park, 80 Broadway Road

WHAT:

The Dracut Police Department will host a Public Safety Night, featuring games, giveaways, prizes and a town-sponsored fireworks show that will take place at dusk.

The event will include free hotdogs, burgers and drinks from local vendors, as well as an ice cream truck, games, music, and a chance to check out Dracut Police Department and Dracut Fire Department vehicles, ambulances and DPW trucks.

K-9 officers will perform demonstrations, and the Manchester, N.H. Police Department will be on hand with their comfort pony “Eddie.” At the end of the evening, the Town of Dracut will provide a professional fireworks display over Veteran’s Park at dusk.

Parking will be limited at Veteran’s Park, so there will be satellite parking locations at the Greenmont School, Town Hall, Library and American Legion, with shuttle buses running on continuous loops from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

“On behalf of the entire Dracut Police Department, I want to invite the community to join us for food, games, conversations and a fireworks display at the end of the night,” said Chief Bartlett. “The Dracut Police Department is committed to building relationships within the community, and this event will be a great opportunity to get to know your local police officers, while having a ton of fun at the same time”

Major sponsors of Public Safety Night include Chunky’s, Centralville Sportsmen’s Club, Hannaford, Lions International, Martineau’s Towing, The Dow Company, Nutrition Junction, Heavenly Donuts, Momochi, Dracut Funeral Home, Royal House of Roast Beef, Pizza and Seafood, and Dracut House of Pizza.