on 05-16-2009 04:36

No serious injuries; police say shooting may be gang-related

By DONNA KENNY KIRWAN

PAWTUCKET - A 16-year-old boy was shot in the leg while walking with friends on John Street early Thursday evening, police said.

According to Pawtucket Police Detectives Lt. Daniel Mullen, the youth was with a couple of friends in the vicinity of 75 John St. at around 6:18 p.m. when an unidentified juvenile male suddenly fired a shot at him. The youth suffered a bullet wound from a small caliber weapon to his lower right leg.
Mullen said the injury did not appear to be serious and the victim, who he declined to identify, was transported to Hasbro Children's Hospital for treatment.
According to the police log, the suspect was described as a young, dark-skinned male who was wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt.
Mullen said that police are interviewing juveniles in the area who have been known to frequent the John Street Playground, which is located near the scene of the shooting. He said that police are also looking into the possibility that the incident was gang-related because of some possible gang affiliations involving the victim.
Mullen said the victim lives in the city but does not attend any of the public schools. He said that no actions have been taken by police or school authorities in regard to limiting any student activities.