Marshfield man arrested on gun charges, accused of shooting at neighboring houses while drunk

MARSHFIELD, Mass. — A Marshfield man was arrested Monday night for allegedly firing a gun off his back porch at neighboring houses.

66-year-old David Planchard is charged with four counts of improper storage of a firearm, two counts of malicious and wanton damage, discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a residence, disturbing the peace, intoxicated while carrying a firearm and illegal possession of a firearm.

Officers responding to the area of Ocean Street and Foster Avenue around 8 p.m. for a report of shots fired were told by a caller that gunshots and flashing lights were coming from “an older gentleman pacing back and forth on the porch” of 4 Foster Avenue, according to Marshfield Police.

When police responded to the residence, Planchard answered the door and let officers inside. A second call was then made to police regarding the gunshots in the area while officers were in the home, according to officials.

Authorities say they could detect a strong smell of alcohol on Planchard’s breath as he answered their questions. Officers allegedly found an empty firearm magazine on the kitchen table and two Sig Sauer handguns unsecured in a kitchen drawer while sweeping the property.

A K9 officer specializing in weapons detection was called in. The officers reportedly found bullet holes in neighboring homes close to Planchard’s home, and a spent bullet casing in the bush of his yard. Officials believe the shooting was not directed at any particular victim or neighbor.

After a more thorough search of the residence, police say another handgun was found in a bedroom closet along with a shotgun, rifle, and various ammunition, which were properly secured.

Planchard’s bail was set at $2,540 and he was released on bail. He will appear in court on Tuesday.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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