A Quincy man is facing charges after trying to shoot and kill another man on Route 128 in Beverly Sunday night, according to the Essex County District Attorney’s Office.
Thomas Drequan Perkins, 26, pleaded not guilty to eight charges connected to the incident during his arraignment in Salem District Court on Thursday, according to court records. He has been charged with two counts each of assault with intent to murder using a firearm and assault with a dangerous weapon, as well as three gun charges.
The incident stemmed from an argument Perkins had with the victim in the Beverly Service Plaza parking lot on Route 128 north, the district attorney’s office said. Prosecutors allege that, following the exchange, Perkins pursued the victim down the highway.
Around 11:30 p.m., Perkins shot at the victim’s car, which was carrying a passenger, the district attorney’s office said. Beverly and State Police responded to the incident.
During Perkins’ arraignment, the judge granted the prosecution’s request that he be held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing, which is scheduled for Dec. 18, the district attorney’s office said. The judge also ordered Perkins to refrain from contacting any victims or witnesses associated with the case.
It is unclear whether Perkins knew the victim or whether anyone was injured as a result of the incident. No further information has been released.
