Suspect arrested after dine-and-dash, firearm incident in Boston’s Chinatown

BOSTON — A woman was arrested Monday after allegedly attempting to flee a Chinatown restaurant without paying and brandishing a firearm when confronted by staff.

Zaire Alexander, 24, of Charlestown, turned herself in at Boston Municipal Court at 12:25 p.m. on July 1.

She faces charges including carrying a loaded firearm, assault and battery on an elderly person, and defrauding an innkeeper.

The incident occurred around 10:15 p.m. on June 29 at a restaurant on Washington Street.

According to police, Alexander and a male companion ordered and consumed food before attempting to leave without paying.

Witnesses reported that the male left the restaurant while Alexander went to the bathroom.

When staff confronted Alexander about the unpaid bill, she allegedly pulled out a firearm.

A struggle ensued, during which a staff member disarmed her.

Boston police recovered a pink .380 caliber semi-automatic firearm, a magazine containing five rounds, and one ejected round at the scene.

Officers also found Alexander’s social security card and personal belongings.

One victim received treatment for minor injuries from Boston EMS at the restaurant.

Alexander is expected to be arraigned in Boston Municipal Court.

The male suspect remains at large.