METHUEN, MASS. (WHDH) - Three people are facing assault and gun charges and a fourth is being sought after an incident involving a gun at a high school football game in Methuen on Saturday led to a car chase that came to a crashing end after an officer was struck by the vehicle, officials said
An officer patrolling the gate of Nicholson Stadium during a football game between Lawrence and Methuen high schools around 3 p.m. followed a suspect after a witness reported that they had just displayed a gun, Methuen Police Chief Joseph Solomon, Mayor James Jajuga and Superintendent Brandi Kwong said in a joint statement.
That’s when the suspect and three other people got in a gray Honda in the parking lot and drove away, striking the officer as he gave chase, officials said. The officer also said the driver pointed a gun at him as he sped away.
When the vehicle crashed on Larwchood Road, police say all four occupants fled on foot.
Three of them, including 19-year-old Anthony Rivera, of Lawrence, and two 17-year-old juveniles, were tracked down and arrested on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and leaving the scene of an accident with property damage.
Police are still searching for a fourth suspect but do not believe there is an active threat to the community.
This is a developing news story; stay with 7NEWS on-air and online for the latest details.
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