Man arrested after occupied RPD car was shot multiple times

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — One person was arrested Thursday after an RPD patrol car was shot multiple times during a traffic stop.

According to investigators, the marked car was stopped on Grape Street at Smith Street with its lights on when it was shot at least twice around 3:10 p.m. The officer inside was not injured.

“It was obviously a police officer in the middle of a traffic stop,” RPD Captain Greg Bello said.

Police closed the area to traffic and called in a helicopter to search for a suspect. Investigators found Ronald Adams, 20, and charged him with attempted aggravated murder, reckless endangerment, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of stolen property.

News 8 spoke with a family who lives four houses near Grape Street. They said it’s typically a quiet area and were shocked when they saw the scene when they got home.

“This is something random,” said Jaimane Brad. “It’s not like this all the time, but you know, it’s just crazy.”

Chief David Smith with the Rochester Police Department explains how they were able to find the suspect.

“Thanks to his bravery and professionalism, a yard-to-yard search was then done. At this time we have multiple people we have detained,” said Chief Smith.

Adams is scheduled to be arraigned Friday morning. Police said they would release more information at that time.

Statement from Rochester Mayor Malik Evans

I thank God that no one was injured, or worse, in the shooting incident that targeted a Rochester Police Department Traffic Enforcement Officer today. This senseless act of violence is a stark reminder of the risks our police officers face every day as they work to keep our city safe.

Make no mistake – even though no one was injured, this was an act of violence of the highest order, a truly selfish and cowardly act. I am grateful the suspect was apprehended, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the RPD and our partners in law enforcement at Monroe County and New York State.

We must remain vigilant as a community and continue to work together to fight gun violence, and I remain committed to using every available resource to help prevent incidents like this in our city.

Statement from the Rochester Police Locust Club

The Locust Club wants to assure the public that our member who was shot at today is thankfully unhurt. The investigation is ongoing and more information will be divulged as it becomes available.

It is beyond shocking to have one of our members face such grave danger in broad daylight while carrying out their normal duties. All due efforts will be made to bring the perpetrator(s) of this cowardly act to justice. We ask for the community’s support and assistance.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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