New Bedford Police Seize Illegal Gun, Arrest Two After Threats

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford Police arrested two people and took an illegal firearm off the streets this week.

Gun Threat Reported at Southcoast Condominiums

According to police, officers responded at about 9 p.m. on September 10 to the Southcoast Condominium complex at 2100 Phillips Road after the caller reported they were being threatened by a man with a handgun. Officers were unable to locate the man.

About 30 minutes later, officers responded to 2110 Phillips Road for a report of a single gunshot inside an apartment. Officers arrived to find a fresh bullet hole in the bedroom wall, police said.

Police Discover Loaded Illegal Firearm

Several people were detained during the investigation, and a search of the area led police to discover a black backpack under a nearby vehicle. Inside, officers found a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm handgun loaded with multiple rounds of ammunition. They said the serial number on the gun did not return any registered owner in Massachusetts.

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Two Suspects Arrested

Through investigation, police identified Adilson Moreno, 22, of New Bedford as the suspect involved in the initial threat with a firearm. He was arrested and charged with a variety of offenses, including assault with a dangerous weapon and carrying a firearm without a license.

Ariana Santos, 31, of Taunton, was also placed under arrest. Police did not disclose the charges against Santos.