Paterson man arrested in second Easter Sunday shooting
By Jonathan Greene
Published: April 22, 2019
A city man was arrested Sunday night for allegedly firing shots on Southard Street, according to police.
Luis A. Ortiz, 30-year-old, allegedly fired shots in the area of 23-25 Southard Street at around 9:30 p.m. 12 hours earlier, police arrested Adonis Reyes, 25-year-old for firing shots three blocks away on Market Street.
Police quickly responded to report of a shooting on Southard Street.
Police officers Mohammad Bashir and Jon Dabal observed the armed gunman flee the area. Both officers chased and apprehended Ortiz in the area of 21-25 Martin Street, police said.
Ortiz discarded a 9mm SCCY semi-automatic handgun while fleeing police. During the arrest, Ortiz attempted to forcefully overcome the officers, police said. Police ultimately subdued and restrained him.
Ortiz was taken to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Police charged Ortiz with possession of a firearm for an unlawful purpose, discharging a firearm, and resisting arrest.
No one was shot in the two Easter Sunday shootings.
“The officers were able to quickly piece the situation together, identify the suspect and apprehend him without anyone being shot,” police director Jerry Speziale said.