The department did not say whether anyone else was hurt. Before confirming that shots had been fired, New Bedford police urged the public to avoid the area, which sits between downtown and Clark's Cove, and to find alternate routes.

The sequence of events began with a heavy police presence that prompted the department to advise residents and drivers to steer clear of the neighborhood. Police later confirmed that a home on Blackmer Street had been "contained" and that officers had come under fire.

Multiple agencies responded alongside New Bedford police, though the department did not specify which ones. Authorities have not released further details about what led to the shooting, whether anyone was taken into custody, or the condition of anyone inside the home.

The neighborhood, located in the city's South End near the waterfront, is a residential area that typically sees little heavy police activity. Wednesday's incident briefly turned it into the scene of a multi-agency operation.

Police have not said whether the shots were fired from inside the home or by someone outside it, nor have they described the type of weapon involved. The department also has not indicated whether it is seeking any suspects.

Residents with information about the incident are encouraged to contact New Bedford police. The department has not scheduled a press briefing, and further updates are expected as the investigation continues.

The shooting marks the latest in a series of high-profile incidents involving New Bedford police. In October, the department fired two officers over their misuse of Flock license plate-reading cameras, a case that raised questions about surveillance technology and accountability within the force.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to come forward as investigators work to piece together what happened on Blackmer Street.