3 arrests made in Orange Street shooting

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - NEW INFORMATION: Springfield Police have arrested three suspects for the shooting of two men shot on Orange Street around 7:20PM, Wednesday night.

According to Sgt. John Delaney a 22 year old male victim suffered from three gun shot wounds to the back and a 27 year old male city resident suffered from a shot to the neck and back.

The two victims were shot in front of the “Red Apple” Chinese restaurant at 2 Orange Street. Witnesses stated to police about an argument occurring at the Johnny Appleseed Park, on Orange Street, between the two victims and the three shooters.

Approximately 30 minutes after the initial shooting police arrested Rafael Rivera-Vazquez, 26, Roberto Antonio Melendez-Vazquez, 29, and Vilmanuel Mulero-Vazquez, 23. They were spotted walking down Chester Street in Springfield.

All three suspects will be charged with 2 counts of assault with intent to murder, 2 counts of A&B by means of dangerous weapons, possession of a loaded firearm, and discharging a firearm within 500 ft. of a dwelling.

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Both shooting victims are in good condition and are expected to survive.

The motive for the shooting, according to Sgt. Delany, seems to be “gang related.” An investigation is still ongoing.

All three subjects will be arraigned in Springfield District Court today (Thursday).