LOWELL — A juvenile male has been identified as the individual reported to be brandishing a firearm in Lowell on Wednesday, prompting a large-scale police response. Police later confirmed the weapon was an airsoft replica firearm.
According to a press release from Deputy Superintendent Mark LeBlanc, the Lowell Police Department’s Public Information Officer, the incident occurred on September 3, 2025, just before 2:30 p.m., when the Lowell Police Department received a report of an individual possibly armed with a firearm. Patrol units immediately responded and began searching the area.
The police response included Lowell officers, the Unmanned Aircraft System (drone) unit, Massachusetts State Police Air Wing, Massachusetts State Police Troopers, NEMLEC Swat Team, UMass Lowell police, LNHP Law Enforcement Rangers, as well as the FBI and ATF. Numerous K9 units were also deployed.
Photo credit: Lowell Police Department
Detectives with the Criminal Investigations Bureau conducted a comprehensive investigation while patrol officers secured the area through the night.
“The safety of this city, and its residents and visitors, is our top priority,” said Superintendent Gregory Hudon. “And the extensive response of personnel and assets by this department and our law enforcement partners was a testament to that commitment.”
Hudon also praised the community and officers involved in resolving the incident quickly and safely.
“I want to thank all our officers and partners for their brave response as well as our investigators for their diligent investigative work that brought closure to this incident,” Hudon said. “I would especially like to thank the residents of the affected neighborhood for their cooperation and understanding while this incident unfolded.”
While the weapon was ultimately determined to be an airsoft gun, Hudon emphasized that the department would always respond with full seriousness.
“While the reported firearm in this case was ultimately determined to be an airsoft gun, our community can be certain that, as in this case, the Lowell Police Department will always utilize all available resources until the safety of all involved is assured,” he said.