On Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019 at 9:43 PM Pittsfield Police received a ShotSpotter activation reporting gunfire in the area of John Street in Pittsfield. Responding Patrol, Detective, and Crime Scene units located evidence of gunfire. No victims or property damage were discovered.

Two hours later, at 11:43 PM, a second ShotSpotter activation reported gunfire in the area of Francis Avenue in Pittsfield. A Massachusetts State Police Trooper was in close proximity, heard the shots, and observed a vehicle leaving the area at a high rate of speed. A motor vehicle stop was initiated by the Trooper on Danforth Ave., where he was joined by multiple Pittsfield Police Units.

The two occupants of the vehicle were detained, and a firearm was discovered inside the vehicle.

Subsequent investigation revealed no victims or property damage on Francis Avenue.

Tajaye Davis, 24, and Zyir Rasheed, 19, both of Pittsfield, were arrested and arraigned Friday, Aug. 23 in Central Berkshire District Court on the following charges:

1. Possession of a Firearm w/out FID/LTC

2. Possession of Ammunition w/out FID card

3. Receiving Stolen Property Under $1200.00
Additional charges are pending.

The ongoing investigation is being conducted by Pittsfield Police Detectives, Crime Scene Investigators, and the Massachusetts State Police Ballistics Unit.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact the Pittsfield Police Department Detective Bureau at 413-448-9705. Information can also be provided anonymously via the Detective Bureau Tip Line at 413-448-9706, or by texting PITTIP and your message to TIP411 (847411).

(featured image Rasheed - left, Davis - right) 

(press release and photos courtesy of the Pittsfield Police Department) 

More From WUPE