Boston Police Officer Displays 'Restraint' Fending Off Man's Unprovoked Attack, Commissioner Says
BOSTON (CBS) -- A police officer showed "restraint" fending off a man's attack near a city parking garage early Friday morning on New Year's Day, Boston Police Commissioner William Evans says.
The incident happened around 2 a.m. Friday in the area of a parking garage at One City Hall Plaza, according to the Boston Police Department website. Video captured the incident as it unfolded.
Police say the officer who called for backup was monitoring the New Year's Eve crowds from his marked cruiser when a man approached him, said "You heard about the war, right?" and then proceeded to punch the officer in the face. While still in the cruiser, the officer punched the man in the face multiple times and radioed for help.
The man ran into the parking garage and officers found him trying to climb a fence to escape, police say. The man allegedly struggled with the officers, allegedly saying "You are all doomed, and you're going to die. They told me to do this."
Andrew Bowman, 23, of Everett, was eventually arrested and charged with assault and battery on a police officer causing injury, disorderly person, trespassing and resisting arrest.
The officer was taken to a Boston area hospital after suffering non-life-threatening injuries, and he was later released.
Evans commended the officer for his action during the incident.
"It's disheartening that these are the dangers officers have to face and be prepared for on a daily basis," he said in a statement. "During otherwise peaceful New Year's celebrations where many folks thanked the officers on the streets and shook their hands, there are still others who wish to harm law enforcement officers at all costs.
"This officer displayed incredible restraint, defending himself without the use of a baton, pepper spray, or deadly force, even though the situation may have warranted it. I speak on behalf of my entire department when I say that we are all thankful that this officer is going to be okay."
