Gunshot fired near soccer practice in Manchester

Aug. 21—Police arrested two people after a gunshot was reported near a soccer practice Tuesday evening near 275 Maple St. in Manchester.

Witnesses told investigators they saw someone in a group of teenagers shoot a gun in the air just north of the field where they were practicing around 8 p.m. The shooter then ran through the JFK Coliseum parking lot with the other members of his group.

Officers arrested Roddick Rodriguez Franco, 18, and a juvenile after locating them on Beech Street. Rodriguez Franco began to run when an officer attempted to pat him down, police said.

Officers caught up to Rodriguez Franco and took him into custody after a brief struggle. Rodriguez Franco had a 9mm pistol, police said.

Rodriguez Franco and the juvenile were each charged with resisting arrest. Police determined that four other juveniles were involved in the incident.

"We respond to and investigate all reports of gun crime equally and treat them seriously," Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg said. "Youth gun violence is particularly concerning, and we work with our private and public partners to provide meaningful opportunities to improve their futures as opposed to engaging in criminal behavior."

Anyone who has information about this incident can call Manchester Police at 603-668-8711. You mayalso remain anonymous and call the Manchester Crimeline at 603-624-4040.