Incident Update - Arrest made in Chestnut St. Shots Fired Incident

INCIDENT UPDATE: January 28, 2026 - 

Shawndell Johnson, 30, of Cambridge was placed under arrest on January 28th on charges related to a shots fired incident on Chestnut Street this past weekend. On Saturday, January 24, 2026 shortly before 1am Cambridge Police responded to Chestnut St. after receiving a ShotSpotter activation and multiple 9-1-1 calls. Upon arrival officers located ballistic evidence and were able to confirm that a shooting had occurred, there were no known injuries. CPD Officers and Detectives promptly launched an investigation into the incident, during which they uncovered evidence that pointed to Mr. Johnson’s involvement. In conjunction with the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, CPD Detectives were able to obtain a warrant for Johnson’s arrest and he was placed into custody earlier today without incident. Mr. Johnson is expected to be arraigned at Cambridge District Court on Thursday, January 29^th, the case will prosecuted by the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.

INITIAL RELEASE: January 24, 2026 -

On Saturday, January 24, 2026 shortly before 1am Cambridge Police responded to Chestnut St. after receiving a ShotSpotter activation and multiple 9-1-1 calls. Upon arrival officers located ballistic evidence confirming that a shooting had occurred. There are no known injuries at this time and preliminary investigation suggests that there is no on-going danger to the broader community.

The incident remains under investigation by CPD Detectives. Anyone with information that may be relevant to this investigation is asked to contact CPD Detectives at (617) 349-3300. Instructions for submitting anonymous tips through e-mail and text are available by Clicking Here