As previously reported, at approximately 10:25 p.m. on January 18, 2021, members of the Lawrence Police Patrol Division responded to report of shots fired in area of Lawrence and Common Streets. Upon arrival, the responding unit observed a man in a vehicle who was suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was treated on scene by paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians from Lawrence General Hospital. He was subsequently transported by ambulance to that facility and later transferred to a Boston hospital.

Following a lengthy investigation conducted by the Lawrence Police Patrol Division and Lawrence Police Detectives Division,  and Detectives from Massachusetts State Police assigned to District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett’s Office, as well as the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Section, and the US Marshalls Service the suspect responsible has been arrested in Raleigh, North Carolina. 

Ramsis Cruz, age 22, of Milford, MA was charged with Assault with Intent to Murder, Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon, Firearm Use in a Felony, Carrying a Loaded Firearm without a License and Discharging a Firearm within 500’ of a Building. Upon extradition he will be arraigned in Lawrence District Court.

Chief Vasque is grateful for the quick and thorough investigation that led to solving this case and getting a violent person off our streets. I can’t say enough about the continued support given to us by the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section, US Marshalls Service, and the Massachusetts State Police and Attorneys from District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett’s Office. These partnerships are key pieces to the safety and security of the city.  Special thanks to the North Carolina Violent Fugitive Task Force, and the Raleigh North Carolina Police Department for their assistance in this case.