Suspect Identified Who Shot At Bridgeport Police Officers

BRIDGEPORT, CT — The Bridgeport man who fired multiple shots through a door at Bridgeport police officers early Wednesday has been identified, according to authorities.

No injuries were reported in the 12:10 a.m. incident on Grand Street, but one of the officers returned fire, Bridgeport Assistant Police Chief Frank Capozzi said.

As a result, the state Office of Inspector General and Connecticut State Police Major Crimes Unit are investigating the officer-involved shooting, according to Capozzi.

Bridgeport police were dispatched to the scene following a complaint of an active street fight, and one of those involved, later identified as Roberto Martins, 53, reportedly was armed with a knife.

"Responding officers encountered the suspect, who fled into an apartment," Capozzi said in a statement. "The suspect subsequently fired multiple rounds through the apartment door at the responding officers. An officer returned fire.

"The suspect was taken into custody. No officers or civilians were injured, and there is currently no threat to the public."

Two officers underwent a health evaluation after the incident, according to police.

Bridgeport Police Det. Jeffrey Holtz added details about the incident.

"The Bridgeport Police Department's Hostage Negotiation Unit arrived with the Emergency Services Unit (SWAT) and set up positions around the house," Holtz said. "Martins was eventually talked into surrendering and came out of the basement unarmed. Two guns were recovered by police."

Martins was charged with the following:

• Criminal Attempt Murder
• Criminal Attempt Assault of a Public Safety Officer
• Criminal Possession of a Firearm
• Illegal Discharge of a Firearm

He is being held in lieu of bail of $2 million.

Additionally, Martins has a non-extraditable warrant for for his arrest on a burglary charge out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, according to Holtz.

"He was also targeted for alien removal in 2005," Holtz said. "He is reported to be illegally in the United States at this time."

Holtz added, "These patrols officers acted heroically. The specialized units arrived quickly and performed the way they are trained. The department never wants to have an incident in which guns are discharged. However, if it occurs, this is the outcome we want - nobody injured and the suspect arrested and charged."