Massachusetts

Man Charged in Chelmsford Home Invasion

Police in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, are investigating an armed home invasion at an apartment building.

The incident happened around 10:45 a.m. Thursday morning on Tyngsborough Road. Police say the victim and suspect didn't know each other.

When police arrived, they spotted the suspect, 45-year-old Cedric Edwards of Boston's Dorchester neighborhood, running from the scene.

Authorities say he forced his way into the apartment and assaulted the male victim at gunpoint, strangling him.

Police do not knows why Edwards came to Chelmsford from Dorchester, but neighbors say he may have been disguised.

Luis Tavares ran to help from a nearby apartment.

"I said, 'What's going on?' He said, 'This guy with a UPS jacket and hat and box in his hand ran this way,'" Tavares recalled.

Police were able to chase Edwards down and catch him on Tyngsborough Road. They say A K-9 found a gun ditched in some nearby brush, along with Edwards' clothing and zip ties.

Edwards is now facing multiple charges, including armed home invasion and armed assault in a dwelling and strangulation.

A woman who answered the door at the alleged victim's apartment had no comment.

Edwards was transported to an area hospital for a rapid heart rate following his arrest.

The victim suffered injuries that weren't serious and refused medical treatment.

Chelmsford Police Chief James Spinney called it a "violent and unprovoked assault," but he said they are confident there is no threat to the community.

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