Loaded Stolen Firearm Recovered During Traffic Stop in Dorchester

Weymouth man arrested after police find concealed weapon during vehicle search

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:18pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a loaded handgun magazine and ammunition, the metal and bullets sharply illuminated against a dark background, creating a stark, gritty aesthetic that conveys the serious nature of the crime.A recent traffic stop in Dorchester led to the recovery of a stolen, loaded firearm, highlighting the ongoing challenges of illegal gun violence in the community.Boston Today

Police in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood arrested a 31-year-old Weymouth man early Friday morning after recovering a loaded, stolen firearm hidden beneath the rear seat of a vehicle during a traffic stop. Officers had responded to a report of a possible gunshot in the area and pulled over the vehicle for having heavily tinted windows.

Why it matters

The recovery of this stolen, loaded weapon during a routine traffic stop highlights ongoing concerns about illegal firearms and gun violence in the Dorchester community. Police say the incident demonstrates the importance of proactive policing measures and the need for continued efforts to get unlawful guns off the streets.

The details

During the traffic stop on Bowdoin Street, officers noticed the front passenger making suspicious movements, prompting a search of the vehicle. Upon lifting the rear passenger seat, they discovered a Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield Plus handgun that had been reported stolen out of Revere. The weapon was loaded with one round in the chamber and seven additional rounds in the magazine.

  • The incident occurred around 12:15 a.m. on Friday, April 18, 2026.
  • Officers were responding to a 911 call about a possible gunshot in the area.

The players

Taquari Milton

A 31-year-old man from Weymouth who was arrested and charged in connection with the recovered stolen firearm.

District B-2

The Boston Police Department district that responded to the incident and conducted the traffic stop and vehicle search.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This incident demonstrates the importance of proactive policing measures and the need for continued efforts to get unlawful guns off the streets.”

— Boston Police Department

What’s next

Milton is expected to be arraigned in Dorchester District Court on charges of carrying a firearm without a license (loaded), carrying a firearm without a license, possession of ammunition without an FID card, and receiving stolen property over $1,200.

The takeaway

The recovery of this stolen, loaded weapon during a routine traffic stop underscores the ongoing challenges Boston police face in addressing illegal firearms and gun violence in neighborhoods like Dorchester. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive law enforcement efforts and community partnerships to keep dangerous weapons out of the wrong hands.