Shooting Suspect Dragged Lawrence Cop While Fleeing: State Police

LAWRENCE, MA — A shooting suspect who dragged a Lawrence police officer while fleeing a traffic stop has been arrested, according to state police.

A Lawrence officer stopped a white Honda suspected to be involved in the shooting and was dragged a short distance when the car fled, state police said.

A description of the car was broadcast early Monday morning and Trooper Connor Hendry began searching for it. Hendry found the car taking the ramp from Route 93 to Route 495 southbound.

Hendry and a patrol supervisor conducted a felony stop of the Honda. But the suspect exited the car and fled into a nearby swamp.

Hendry and a sergeant contained the suspect, Junior Arias Lara, 31, of Springfield.

Hendry ordered Arias Lara to keep his hands visible and exit the swamp. Arias Lara repeatedly ignored the Trooper’s orders, dropping his hands and reaching into his waistband, state police said.

Hendry approached Arias Lara, who struggled with the state trooper and again tried to flee.

Hendry and the patrol supervisor eventually subdued Arias Lara and took him into custody. He was then transferred to Lawrence police and charged in the shooting and for dragging the Lawrence officer with his car.

Arias Lara will also face charges for fleeing state police, including failure to stop for police, resisting arrest, and unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.