Suspect dead after officer-involved shooting in New Bedford

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — A suspect was found dead inside a New Bedford home Wednesday night after exchanging gunfire with police during an incident that started as a traffic stop.

The suspect has since been identified as 39-year-old Derek Rego of New Bedford, according to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.

Rego was found in a stairwell at 153 Blackmer Street suffering from a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators said Rego had no other injuries and was found with a firearm resting on his abdomen. His official cause of death is pending an autopsy by the Massachusetts Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Shortly after 7 p.m. Wednesday, a New Bedford detective attempted to stop a red Jeep Cherokee.

Police said the vehicle failed to stop and the driver fired at police. The Jeep eventually stopped at the intersection of Blackmer and South Second streets.

Police said Rego then got out of the Jeep and ran into his residence at 153 Blackmer Street.

A 3-year-old boy who is a relative of Rego was found unharmed inside the Jeep.

While inside the Blackmer Street home, authorities said Rego fired additional rounds at police, who returned fire.

Police continued trying to communicate with Rego and de-escalate the situation.

A drone was eventually deployed and was able to view Rego dead in a stairway inside the building. The SEMLEC Regional SWAT team then entered the home.

No police officers, other public safety personnel, or bystanders were hurt during the incident.

“This incident highlights the danger our officers can be faced with in just a split second,” New Bedford Police Chief Jason Thody said. “There is no doubt that the bravery shown by the officers from New Bedford and across Southeastern Massachusetts saved lives this evening.”

The incident remains under investigation.

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

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