Worcester police arrest 54 after illegal car show

WORCESTER — Fifty-three adults and one juvenile were arrested late Friday night after police cracked down on an illegal car show gathering that has been causing disturbances in the city.

According to Worcester Police Department, these impromptu “car shows” have been a source of public nuisance since the spring, with multiple reports of gunshots, property damage, and reckless driving stemming from these events.

The Summer Impact program officers responded to citizen complaints about erratic driving and large, disorderly groups at the car show on July 19.

The series of incidents began at 10:19 a.m. when a bullet casing was found on New Bond Street, a known location for these gatherings.

Later at 9:07 p.m., patrol officers and the Operations Division were dispatched to the former Dick’s Sporting Goods parking lot on Lincoln Street after reports of cars speeding and driving recklessly in the area.

Officers observed evidence of the illegal activity with visible skid marks and tire tracks across the lot.

At 9:51 p.m., a large assembly of vehicles was reported at a lot on New Bond Street, where several cars fled upon police arrival.

However, officers managed to record some of the vehicle’s license plates.

The group’s activities had been advertised on social media, directing participants to multiple locations, including 330 Southwest Cutoff.

Police arrived at this location around 11:43 p.m. to find approximately 30 vehicles gathered behind a building, with loud music and engines revving.

All arrested individuals were charged with trespassing.

Police used a patrol wagon and a bus to transport them to the station, and no injuries were reported during the arrests.

Family and friends of the arrestees were allowed to remove their vehicles to prevent towing.

Interim Police Chief Paul Saucier emphasized that such events pose a danger to the community and will not be tolerated.

Following up on public safety concerns, officers conducted a thorough search of the Southwest Cutoff parking lot on July 20 at 8:55 a.m. for any discarded firearms.

No weapons were found during the search.