Three arrested after shootout in Haverhill

No injuries reported as police apprehend suspects

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:12pm

An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car window with a single bullet hole, capturing the stark, gritty aftermath of a shooting incident in Haverhill.A bullet-riddled car window serves as a grim reminder of the gun violence that plagues Haverhill's streets.Haverhill Today

Haverhill Police have arrested three individuals following a shooting incident on Welcome Street that left a parked car riddled with bullet holes. The 71-year-old owner of the vehicle, Bill Symonovit, was sitting inside at the time but miraculously escaped unharmed after ducking for cover during the barrage of gunfire.

Why it matters

Gun violence and public safety concerns are ongoing issues in Haverhill, a city that has seen its share of crime and unrest in recent years. This incident highlights the need for continued law enforcement efforts to address criminal activity and protect innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire.

The details

According to police, the shooting occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Thursday when a masked individual approached Symonovit's parked car and opened fire. A group of youths then arrived on the scene, leading to an exchange of gunshots that left Symonovit's vehicle with multiple bullet holes. Authorities have arrested three suspects - Riley Quinn, 18, Timothy Mossey, 18, and Richard Santana, 25 - and expect to file additional charges as the investigation continues.

  • The shooting occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • The three suspects were arrested shortly after the incident.

The players

Bill Symonovit

A 71-year-old Haverhill resident who was sitting in his parked car when the shooting broke out, miraculously escaping unharmed.

Riley Quinn

An 18-year-old Haverhill resident who was arrested and charged in connection with the shooting.

Timothy Mossey

An 18-year-old Haverhill resident who was arrested and charged in connection with the shooting.

Richard Santana

A 25-year-old Haverhill resident who was arrested and charged in connection with the shooting.

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What they’re saying

“I'm lucky to be alive.”

— Bill Symonovit

“When the barrage was going on, I was thinking, I must be hit. They were shooting so much.”

— Bill Symonovit

What’s next

The three suspects are expected to be arraigned in Haverhill District Court on Friday, and additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges Haverhill faces in addressing gun violence and ensuring public safety, even in residential neighborhoods. The swift arrests of the suspects provide some reassurance, but more work is needed to address the root causes of such crimes and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.