New Bedford Police Arrest Repeat Criminal for Monday's Shooting

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford Police have announced that a man who previously served prison time for violent crime was arrested and charged in Monday’s shooting incident in the city’s West End.

Officers responded to the area of Austin Street near County Street at about 2:30 p.m. on April 29 for a report of a male gunshot victim. The victim was transported to the hospital for emergency treatment, police said.

They did not provide information as to his condition.

Police said that while on the scene, officers determined the suspect to be Christopher Smith, 38, who detectives soon saw attempting to leave the scene. He fled on foot but was quickly apprehended, according to police.

Police said he was taken into custody and a firearm was recovered. The arresting officers were Roberto Dacunha and Muhammad Mir.

Get our free mobile app

"I commend the exceptional dedication and continued bravery of our officers for swiftly apprehending a suspect in connection to a recent shooting,” Police Chief Paul Oliveira said. “By taking this individual off the streets and seizing a dangerous weapon, they've demonstrated our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of our city."

Smith is charged with assault with intent to murder by discharge of a firearm, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and carrying a loaded firearm without a license.

According to police, Smith has “an extensive criminal history with convictions for a variety of offenses.”

In 2016, he was sentenced to four to six years in prison for an incident during which he was charged with kidnapping, breaking and entering and strangulation.