Two People Shot in Downtown Pittsfield

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UPDATE: Pittsfield Police say the two individuals who were shot on Friday were treated at Berkshire Medical Center and are expected to survive. It is believed that both victims were shot by the same person who fled the scene on foot.
 
Based on evidence collected to this point, police do not believe the Friday's shooting is related to Tuesday's in which a city man was killed. The suspect in that fatal incident has been arrested and charged with murder.
 
Law enforcement officials are asking for the public's cooperation in this investigation as oftentimes it is instrumental in the investigation and prosecution of these cases.
 
Anyone who wishes to provide information on either case is asked to contact the
Detective Bureau at 413-448-9705, anonymously through the tip line at 413-448-9706, or by texting PITTIP and a message to TIP411 (847411).
 
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Two people were shot and wounded near North Street on Friday in an incident police are saying is "not a random act," the Berkshire County District Attorney's Office said on Friday evening.
 
The victims were shot in the area of North Street and Bradford Street, according to a news release from the DA's office. Both were transported to Berkshire Medical Center, where they are being treated for their injuries.
 
The Pittsfield Police Department is investigating the shootings, the office said.
 
"Based on preliminary investigations, Pittsfield Police believe this was not a random act and that there is no immediate danger to the public," the news release reads. "However, as a suspect has not been identified, law enforcement encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police."
 
It was the second reported shooting in the city this week. On Thursday, a city man was charged with murder in Tuesday's death of another Pittsfield resident on Fenn Street.

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Pittsfield Police Chief Retiring in January

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Police Chief Thomas Dawley will retire next month after 24 years with the Pittsfield Police Department, and the mayor will appoint his successor. 

Dawley's last day will be on Jan. 9, and he told iBerkshires that it was "just time." He began his law enforcement career in 1995 at the Berkshire County House of Corrections and was appointed police chief in June 2024

"Reasons for leaving are cumulative. I have been in law enforcement for almost 30 years. There is no particular reason for my retirement, I just feel that it is time," he wrote in an email. 

"I love the profession and love this department. The duties, responsibilities and obligations as a Chief are very demanding. It is a lifestyle, not a job. It is a 24/7–365 days a year responsibility." 

According to The Berkshire Eagle, Dawley told Mayor Peter Marchetti of his intention to retire back in April but had kept the decision quiet. Marchetti is expected to choose his successor in the next couple of weeks. 

Dawley, 52, was "honored and humbled" when he was chosen two years ago to succeed Michael Wynn, he said, and he misses being an officer out in the community, as the role of chief is more administrative by nature. He described the officers and civilian staff at the department as "the best of the best" and is proud of the "second to none" dedication, professionalism, and commitment they bring to work every day. 

"Policing is different than it was 10-20 years ago and the profession is being tested daily," he noted. 

"I want a new challenge and preferably something that does not involve law enforcement, but I am definitely not ruling it out!" 

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