New Bedford police, residents speak after detective shot while undercover

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) — The New Bedford Police Department held a press conference Tuesday after a detective was shot in the face while working undercover.

The department said Det. Lavar Gilbert was working in an unmarked police car in the area of Rivet and Orchard Streets around 8:45 p.m. Monday when shots were fired.

Gilbert, who is a veteran of the New Bedford police force, was struck in the face but was able to drive himself to the hospital where he is receiving treatment.

Police said another man arrived at the hospital with a gunshot wound to his foot and was treated a short time later.

That man, who is currently unidentified, is currently considered connected to the investigation, police said.

Officials further stated they do not believe Gilbert was targeted and there is no threat to the public.

Police Chief Paul Oliveria said the incident is a reminder of the dangers law enforcement face every day.

The owner of Rimos Pizza, which is located on the corner of Rivet and Orchard Streets, said this isn’t the first shooting to happen on the block.

“I feel bad for the officer, and I feel bad for all the neighbors here, and I think in New Bedford we need a lot of work,” owner Okasha Mike said.

Mike explained how he feels something needs to change, and said the city need more officers patrolling.

“The street here is busy, this corner is a very busy corner, we need it, we need more cameras, we have a camera here, a city camera, but we need more,” Okasha said.