BRISTOL, Conn. (WFSB) – Residents at the Bonnie Acres housing complex are demanding better security after a shooting Sunday afternoon.

Authorities said a man was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police said this appeared to be an isolated incident with no threat to the public.

Police focused their investigation inside an apartment building at the complex on Vance Drive. Crime scene tape blocked off the first floor to the building. Officers have not disclosed if a suspect was found or arrested.

Residents said they heard two gunshots Sunday afternoon and saw police K-9 units searching the area. Officers were also seen driving around nearby streets.

Residents describe ongoing safety concerns

Melissa Eastman, a Bonnie Acres resident, said she and her neighbors heard the gunshots and came together to find out what happened.

“We have an active shooter. We heard 2 gunshots earlier this afternoon,” Eastman said. “We didn’t get notified by cops. We got notified through the people in the community.”

Eastman said Sunday’s incident was not isolated.

“It’s kinda frightening because this is not one of the first episodes that’s happened in this complex,” she said.

Neighbors said drug deals are common at the complex. They have also dealt with violent crime and car break-ins.

“They’d go up and break into cars and ride off with the cars. My friend’s car got stolen,” said Paul Foley, another resident.

Residents seek increased protection

Bonnie Acres is owned by the Bristol Housing Authority. Records show the apartments provide low-income housing and also house adults with disabilities.

Residents want more protection, including cameras and better lighting in the complex.

“We’re scared to go out and even hang out on the porch sometimes because there is bad stuff happening,” Foley said.

Eastman said many residents are vulnerable and need advocates.

“There’s a hundred and some residents here and I guarantee at least half of them are disabled and can’t walk,” Eastman said. “We’re trying to speak up for the people that can’t speak up. Enough is enough.”

Anyone with information on the shooting was asked to contact Detective Werner at 860-314-4577.

Copyright 2025 WFSB. All rights reserved.