SPRINGFIELD — Springfield police arrested a 39-year-old man late Thursday night after officers seized a loaded firearm and a trafficking amount of cocaine from him on Carew Street.
The incident began around 10:15 p.m. when officers responded to a gun call involving Rafael Rodriguez on Los Angeles Street.
Police had information that Rodriguez, who was believed to be armed, might head to a bar located on the 800 block of Carew Street.
Officers were at the bar when Rodriguez arrived shortly after 11:20 p.m. As they began to detain him, a quantity of cocaine fell to the floor and a gun was found in his waistband.
Rodriguez, who had an outstanding warrant for heroin trafficking, was arrested at the scene.
Rodriguez, from Springfield, is facing multiple charges including convicted felon in possession of a firearm, firearm violation with two prior violent or drug crimes, carrying a firearm without a license, carrying a loaded firearm without a license, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
Additional charges include cocaine trafficking of 18 grams or more, witness intimidation, larceny under $1,200, assault, assault and battery on a family or household member, and an arrest warrant for heroin trafficking.
Rodriguez had previously been convicted in Pennsylvania in 2013 for attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
The Springfield Police Department continues to investigate the incident.
