A gunman opened fire on Memorial Drive in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on Monday afternoon, wounding two people and leading to a shootout with police. Authorities have identified the suspect as 46-year-old Tyler Brown, who was arrested after exchanging gunfire with Massachusetts State Police troopers. The incident began around 1:30 p.m. near the intersection of Memorial Drive and River Street, where witnesses reported seeing Brown firing an assault-style rifle at passing vehicles. Two victims remain in critical condition, including an MBTA bus driver and another individual struck by gunfire. A mail truck was also hit, though the driver escaped injury.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as Brown fired randomly at cars and pedestrians. One witness, Joseph Minino Rodriguez, heard at least 15 gunshots and saw the suspect hitting car windows with his rifle. Another witness reported that Brown appeared frustrated, possibly struggling with his weapon. Police responded swiftly, and a trooper shot Brown in the torso, ending the active threat. No officers were injured in the exchange.
Brown has a lengthy criminal history, including a 2020 incident where he fired 13 rounds at Boston police officers in the South End. He was charged with attempted murder of police officers at the time. Authorities had attempted a well-being check at his Dorchester home earlier Monday after his parole officer reported a suicidal statement. Brown now faces two counts of armed assault with intent to murder, weapons possession charges, and additional offenses.
Governor Maura Healey confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public, but urged residents to avoid the area. Cambridge Police and State Police continue investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about gun violence and mental health interventions in the region.