A person has been arrested after opening fire on Boston firefighters who were attempting to extinguish a fire at a building in Mattapan on Saturday morning. The incident resulted in a lengthy standoff as the fire continued to burn, but ultimately the suspected shooter was apprehended, allowing firefighters to extinguish the blaze. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, although residents of the affected building were evacuated during the tense standoff.

According to officials, a SWAT team was called to Fairlawn Avenue in response to reports of gunfire aimed at the firefighters. The fire had been reported at approximately 11:35 a.m., but due to safety concerns, firefighters were unable to combat the flames until the scene was under control by the police.

Deputy Chief Michael Doherty stated, "We couldn't fight that fire until police actually controlled that scene." Firefighters congregated outside various buildings in the Fairlawn Estates apartment complex where the incident occurred, while law enforcement personnel entered and exited one of the buildings. An emergency siren added to the chaotic atmosphere at the scene.

During the standoff, a person was seen being wheeled away on a stretcher. Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox later confirmed that the suspected shooter had sustained injuries, likely due to a fall. Additionally, a firearm was recovered at the scene. The identity of the suspected gunman has not yet been disclosed.

As of 1:40 p.m., smoke was still visible emanating from the building. It was only a few minutes prior to a news conference at 2:10 p.m. that the fire was finally brought under control, according to Doherty. The fire originated on the first floor but had spread to the second and third floors of the building.

To aid in the search for the suspect, drones were employed, and Commissioner Cox praised the dedication of the firefighters who continued working diligently despite the challenging circumstances. He also commended the substantial number of officers who responded to the scene.

Residents present during the firefighting efforts revealed that there had been another incident involving gunshots overnight. Cox confirmed that this incident is also part of the ongoing investigation, clarifying that no injuries were sustained at that time.

The arrest of the suspect brings a sense of relief to the Mattapan community, as firefighters and law enforcement officials work to determine the motives behind this alarming incident.