5 arrested after large crowd allegedly blocked streets and caused disturbance in Fall River

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) — The Fall River Police Department said five people were arrested after a crowd of about 200 people allegedly blocked multiple streets and caused a public disturbance on Oct. 5.

22-year-old Jahir Gonzalez, of New Bedford, 21-year-old Alexander Copsetta, of North Easton, 19-year-old Alyssa Deyoung, of Bridgewater, 19-year-old Mackenzie Benjamin, of Kingston, and 20-year-old Aiden Meehan were charged with disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and conspiracy.

Meehan was also charged with operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license.

A warrant was requested for 19-year-old Brennden Ortega of New Bedford on charges in connection to the incident.

Around 12:30 a.m., police responded to reports of reckless driving, street racing, and blocked roadways throughout Fall River, which police claimed to be “part of a coordinated and preplanned event intended to disrupt traffic and disturb the peace of the community.”

According to police, these disturbances have occurred in surrounding towns and often include large crowds that “intentionally block roads, endanger the public through negligent vehicle operation, and interfere with emergency services.”

Overnight on Oct. 5 in Fall River, about 200 people had allegedly blocked the roadway in the area of Davol Street and Central Street.

In that area, police alleged the group set off fireworks in the street, as well as performed burnouts and donuts in vehicles.

Police added that many of these individuals wore masks to hide their identities and “showed complete disregard for police presence.”

According to police, Davol Street, which provides access to St. Anne’s Hospital and Charleston Memorial Hospital, was shut down and posed a “serious public safety hazard.”

Additionally, police said an ambulance had to reroute when a group refused to let it pass on Innovation Way.

During an investigation, police discovered the group had met up in Brockton and traveled to Fall River.

Four vehicles were towed and five people were arrested.

Police continue to identify individuals involved through body-worn camera footage.

The disturbance remains under investigation.