Suspect shot, officers hurt in Norwich fight

Norwich, Conn. (WTNH) - Three Norwich police officers were injured in a street fight in which one man was shot.

Police say they were arresting three people on Oneco Street on Tuesday night just before 9 p.m. when one of the suspects fought with police and was shot.

Now police are investigating how it happened and why the normally quiet Norwich neighborhood, wasn't so quiet that night.

One witness who didn't want to be identified said at least half a dozen men were involved in a fight outside the home at 89 Oneco Street.

"It was about quarter to nine, a lot of yelling," the witness said. "I saw a group of guys, fighting, scuffling and then the police arrived."

The three Norwich police officers tried to cool things down. Most of the men cooperated, but one, identified as Fernando Velasquez, continued to be combative with the officers.

The officers attempted to take Velasquez into custody.

"In doing so, a weapon was discharged the suspect was struck, but he continued to fight the officers," said Lt. Paul Vance.

The struggle finally ended and Velasquez was taken to Yale New Haven hospital for surgery.  
He's expected to survive, police say.

The three officers were treated for minor injuries at Backus Hospital.

State police continue to investigate just how and why the Norwich officer fired his weapon.

"Detectives have recovered physical and forensic evidence and have located and spoken with numerous witnesses to this incident," Lt. Vance said.

Area residents expressed genuine surprise this type of skirmish happened.

"Nothing happens in the neighborhood, other than kids running around, playing," said Lucky Colaluca.

Velasquez will be arrested once his condition is stable. Two other men were arrested by Norwich Police and charged with assaulting an officer, breach of peace and interfering with police.

The names of the other two suspects have not been released. Police say they are withholding the names of the officers involved.