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DA: Driver accelerated at officer, prompting shooting in Medford

MEDFORD, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) – Two men were injured following a police-involved shooting in Medford.

The Middlesex County District Attorney's office said the driver of an Acura accelerated toward a Mass. State Trooper during a traffic stop, prompting the officer to open fire on the car, hitting two people.

The incident happened on Route 16 near the Meadow Glen Mall early Friday morning.

"A confrontation occurred, in which the trooper was put in fear for his life and safety," Procopio said. "During that confrontation, because the trooper was in fear for his life and safety, he discharged rounds from his service weapon."

Video from the scene showed bullet holes in the windshield of the vehicle.

The driver, identified as 19-year-old Stephen Cabrera, of Haverhill, was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. He was arrested and charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, resisting arrest, possession of a Class D drug, operating after registration revoked, speeding, marked lanes violation, failure to stop for police and failure to stop at a red light.

A passenger also suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The man was treated and released.

The trooper was put on administrative leave per State Police policy.

Route 16 was shut down in both directions for a time but was opened at about 7 a.m.