Man Arrested for Attempted Assault in Utica

Joseph Fields, 57, charged with multiple weapons and assault offenses after allegedly firing shots near a vehicle

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:22pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a metallic handgun magazine, the details and textures sharply in focus against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty investigative mood without words.A recent wave of gun violence incidents in Utica exposes the ongoing challenges the city faces in addressing illegal firearm possession and use.Utica Today

A 57-year-old Utica man named Joseph Fields was arrested on April 12, 2026 after allegedly firing multiple shots at people near a vehicle in Oneida Square. Police responded to reports of shots fired around 9:15 a.m. and located Fields, who they say discarded a loaded .40 caliber handgun as officers tried to detain him. Fields was charged with several weapons and assault charges, including criminal possession of a weapon and attempted assault.

Why it matters

Gun violence and weapons offenses are an ongoing concern in Utica, with the city experiencing higher rates of violent crime compared to state and national averages. This incident highlights the need for continued efforts to address illegal firearm possession and use in the community.

The details

According to police, witnesses reported that a male had fired several rounds at individuals near a vehicle in Oneida Square, and the vehicle then sped away. Officers located a suspect matching the description on the 1400 block of Oneida Street, and as they attempted to detain him, they observed him discard a handgun. The detained party was positively identified as the individual who fired the rounds, and the weapon, a loaded .40 caliber SigSauer handgun, was secured by police.

  • The incident occurred around 9:15 a.m. on April 12, 2026 in Oneida Square, Utica, New York.
  • Joseph Fields was arrested and charged on April 12, 2026.

The players

Joseph Fields

A 57-year-old resident of Utica, New York who was arrested and charged with multiple weapons and assault offenses related to the shooting incident.

Utica Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the reports of shots fired, located the suspect, and made the arrest.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Joseph Fields at his arraignment hearing on April 14, 2026.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the persistent challenges Utica faces in addressing illegal firearm possession and use, and the importance of continued community-based efforts to promote public safety and reduce gun violence.