At approximately 2:12 AM on Sunday, October 5, 2025, officers assigned to District D-4 (South End) responded to a report of a large-scale vehicle takeover at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Tremont Street.
Upon arrival, responding officers encountered a crowd of more than 100 individuals who immediately began attacking marked Boston Police cruisers by throwing fireworks, cones, poles, and other objects. Several vehicles had also been used to block the intersection, preventing normal traffic flow. One marked Boston Police cruiser sustained extensive damage after being repeatedly struck with fireworks, causing smoke and fire inside the vehicle. At one point, members of the crowd jumped onto the hood of the cruiser, further endangering officers.
Additional units from across the city were dispatched to assist, and officers began dispersing the violent crowd using department-issued equipment. The Boston Fire Department responded to extinguish flames after fireworks ignited the cruiser, which was ultimately destroyed by fire and later towed from the scene.
During the incident, officers arrested two individuals:
Julian Bowers, 18, of Cumberland, Rhode Island, was placed under arrest after being observed throwing objects at officers and their cruiser. Following a foot pursuit, Bowers was taken into custody on charges of:
- Malicious Destruction of Property Over $1200
- Disorderly Conduct
- Assault and Battery on a Police Officer
- Resisting Arrest
William Cantwell, 19, of Warwick, Rhode Island, was placed under arrest after being observed repeatedly striking a cruiser with an orange pole. Following a brief struggle, Cantwell was taken into custody. A search of his bag resulted in the recovery of two packages of marijuana edibles. Cantwell faces charges of:
- Malicious Destruction of Property Over $1200
- Disorderly Conduct
- Assault and Battery on a Police Officer
- Resisting Arrest
- Possession of Class D, Marijuana
The seized items were logged as evidence. Crime Scene Response and Fire Investigation units responded to document the incident.
Both suspects are expected to be arraigned in Roxbury District Court.
Detectives assigned to District D-4 are actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding these incidents. Anyone with information is strongly urged to contact District D-4 Detectives at (617) 343-4683.
Community members wishing to provide information anonymously may do so via the CrimeStoppers Tip Line:
📞 By Phone: 1-800-494-TIPS
💬 By Text: Text the word “TIP” to CRIME (27463)
🌐 Online: Submit a tip via Boston Police CrimeStoppers
Photos and videos related to this investigation may also be submitted anonymously. The Boston Police Department will strictly safeguard the identities of those who wish to provide information confidentially.