Ward 5 Alderman Mark Niedergang sent me this and said I could repost it here (and on NextDoor). It's a response to
this earlier post.
Over the past few days, I've spoken with a bunch of people including the Chief of Police Dave Fallon (daily), Mayor's aide, and several of the owners of properties right near the site of the shooting and other neighbors who live right in the area.
Here is what I can tell you at this point.
First, and foremost, I understand neighbors' concern about safety in the area and share their concern. But I do not believe that concerns about safety in the Lowell Street area going forward are warrented.
The Somerville Police Department has said that this was not a random act. The parties involved were known to each other. They are not from Somerville, do not hang out here, and are no longer here.
Chief of Police Dave Fallon assured me that there will be a heightened police presence in the area going forward.
I am asking the SPD to have an active presence at the Albion Street playground in that are for at least the rest of May to talk with parents and address any concerns they have. I have also asked for a communication from the City to the neighborhood.
The police will be sharing more information with the public once an arrest is made.
Yours,
Mark
( Mark Niedergang's contact info )