New Bedford Man Arrested in Fairhaven Walmart Fight

FAIRHAVEN — A New Bedford man has been arrested after allegedly hitting another person with a gun in a fight at Walmart in Fairhaven on Tuesday night.

Fairhaven police said 22-year-old Brandin Gonsalves has been charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, carrying an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and assault with intent to kill.

Police were unable to confirm if any rounds were fired during the altercation, which took place at the Walmart just after 11 p.m. Tuesday.

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The fight was reported in the lobby of the store, where police found three unspent rounds of 9mm ammunition, according to a release from the police department.

Officers learned that Gonsalves had allegedly produced a firearm and hit another person with the weapon during the incident.

He is not licensed to carry a gun in Massachusetts, according to police.

The alleged victim was taken to a nearby hospital, treated, and released.

The Bristol County Sheriff's Office earlier confirmed that two K-9 units were called to the scene to help search for the firearm.

One of the K-9s, Jerry, and partner Officer Scott Robbins found a loaded 9mm magazine near the scene, and the sheriff's office said their units cleared out by 12:43 a.m. Wednesday.

The victim who was allegedly struck was transported to an area hospital where they were treated and released.

Gonsalves is set to be arraigned today in New Bedford District Court.

Massachusetts State Police also assisted at the scene.

An investigation into the incident is ongoing.