Chicopee mayor speaks on robbery turned fatal shooting

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - In breaking news out of Chicopee, we got new information on the deadly shooting that took place on Thursday evening.

We’ve learned this shooting happened during what investigators say was an attempted armed robbery of a store on Montgomery Street late Thursday afternoon.

When our Western Mass News crews arrived last night, we witnessed a heavy police presence in the area of Zain’s Smoke Shop and Convenience around 6 p.m.

Investigators now say that when officers arrived, they discovered two men, one of them suffering from a gunshot wound, and their initial reports suggest the person who was shot was attempting to rob the store.

He has been identified as 53-year-old Robert Papalardo of South Hadley, and he died from his injuries.

We spoke with Chicopee Mayor John Vieau on Friday afternoon, who told us his heart goes out to those who may have lost a loved one, adding that their goal is always to keep people safe.

“We’re doing everything in our power to protect our community and make sure that the police department has the tools they need to keep them safe, and frankly to protect our community.”

While he couldn’t speak to the specifics of this case, he told us his goal is always to keep the city safe.

“Anytime there’s a violent crime, no matter what time of day it is, it’s concerning, you know. We as a city are concerned.”

He then added, “We really focused on community policing in our center, Chicopee center, and also in the Willimansett section, where we really try to build relations with the P.D. and the neighbors and the stakeholders, and the people who live there, and the focus is in the future to continue to build those community policing substations throughout the five villages of Chicopee.”

To combat crime and violence, Mayor Vieau told us the city has recently invested in a camera system that uses AI called “Fusus,” which he described as a modern version of neighborhood crime watch.

He explained, “It focuses on the camera system that allows for the private sector cameras to have the opportunity to get involved as well to have real time footage on your phone for a police officer who may be called to a scene. I think it’s something very special.”

When it comes to keeping Chicopee safe, so far Mayor Vieau said he feels this new software has been worth the investment.

“We’ve already used it, you know, when the little boy was abducted, and the car was stolen. It was a valuable resource to use and I’m glad that turned out ok.”

There’s no word on potential charges in this case, however, the Chicopee Police Department has told us they are working with the Hampden District Attorney’s office on this still ongoing investigation.

Police have confirmed there is no threat to the public.

We will continue to bring you updates as we receive them.