Boston, MA – A disturbance outside MGM Music Hall turned violent Wednesday night, leaving one officer injured and two men under arrest after a clash that escalated into a fight over a police firearm, officials said.
Around 9:50 p.m., officers working a paid detail at the Lansdowne Street venue were called to help remove a man identified as Edwin Rivera, 30, of Mashpee. Police said Rivera became combative during the escort, throwing a drink and swinging at an officer before grabbing the officer’s jacket in an attempt to drag him toward the busy sidewalk. During the struggle, Rivera allegedly reached for the officer’s service weapon and knocked loose his radio before being taken to the ground and handcuffed after repeated resistance.
At the same time, police said Steven Costa, 27, of Hyannis, interfered by yelling, attempting to strike another officer who had fallen, and ignoring repeated commands. Officers deployed a Taser to subdue Costa, who was then arrested.
Boston EMS transported one injured officer to the hospital and evaluated both suspects, who did not require treatment. Police said Rivera remained combative and refused to cooperate with booking after being taken into custody.
Rivera faces charges including attempted disarm of a police officer, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon on a police officer, resisting arrest, intimidation of a police officer, and disorderly conduct. Costa is charged with assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, intimidation, interfering with police, disorderly conduct, and disturbing the peace.
Both men are set to be arraigned in Roxbury District Court.
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