A man from Framingham faced a court hearing for his involvement in a shooting incident at a pro-Israel protest in Newton. Scott Hayes, 47, pleaded not guilty to charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. The victim, identified as Caleb Gannon, 31, of Newton, was receiving treatment at a hospital and is expected to survive his injuries. The incident took place at the intersection of Washington Street and Harvard Street on Thursday evening.
The Shooting Incident:
The shooting occurred during a pro-Israel protest in Newton, where tensions escalated between demonstrators. According to Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, Gannon began shouting at the pro-Israel group and crossed the street to confront them. He allegedly tackled Hayes, prompting a scuffle that led to Hayes shooting Gannon. Ryan confirmed that Hayes legally possessed the gun used in the incident.
Legal Proceedings:
Hayes appeared in court near 3 p.m., where a judge set his cash bail at $5,000. In addition to the assault and battery charge, Hayes was initially arrested for a violation of a constitutional right causing injury, which was later dropped by prosecutors. The DA’s office stated that Gannon would also face charges of assault and battery, and a hearing would be scheduled to determine probable cause.
Supporters and Witnesses:
Prior to Hayes’ arraignment, supporters and witnesses gathered outside Newton District Court, expressing varying opinions on the incident. David Sherman, a witness to the shooting, recounted the events leading up to the altercation, emphasizing the perceived self-defense actions taken by Hayes. Supporters of Hayes echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the need to protect oneself during protests.
Community Response:
Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, along with law enforcement officials, urged the community to remain calm as the investigation unfolded. Newton Acting Police Chief George McMains requested any witnesses with video footage to come forward to assist in the case. US Rep. Jake Auchincloss condemned violence in political discourse and called for a thorough investigation by local authorities.
Calls for Investigation:
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) expressed concerns over the handling of the case and emphasized the importance of a comprehensive investigation to address the escalating tensions. ADL New England urged law enforcement to thoroughly examine the incident to ensure justice and prevent future violent encounters. Community members and officials stressed the need for a transparent and impartial inquiry into the events.
Legal Defense and Support:
Following his arraignment, Hayes’ attorney, Glenn MacKinlay, asserted his client’s innocence, citing self-defense as the primary motive behind the shooting. A GoFundMe campaign in support of Hayes garnered significant contributions, reflecting a divided public opinion on the matter. Despite the financial backing, Hayes was required to adhere to strict conditions, including wearing a GPS monitor and abstaining from possessing any weapons.
Future Court Proceedings:
Hayes is scheduled to appear in court on November 7 for further legal proceedings. He is prohibited from returning to Newton and must comply with the imposed restrictions until the case is resolved. The ongoing investigation and court hearings are expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the shooting and determine the appropriate course of action.
Conclusion:
The shooting incident at the pro-Israel protest in Newton has sparked debate and raised questions about self-defense, community safety, and the handling of contentious demonstrations. As the legal process unfolds, it is crucial for all parties involved to cooperate with investigators and uphold the principles of justice and accountability. The outcome of the case will not only impact the individuals directly involved but also set a precedent for addressing similar incidents in the future. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story as it continues to unfold.
