Worcester Police Department

On December 10, 2025, Detectives with the Worcester Police Department’s Gang Unit, Crime Gun Intelligence Unit, SWAT team, and Worcester County Sheriff's Office were in search of 46-year-old Nicolas McNerney. He was wanted for failing to stop on December 9, 2025, had three warrants out for his arrest and was believed to be illegally carrying firearms. 

McNerney’s vehicle was found on Olean Street. A male who matched his description and an unknown female exited the residence. When detectives moved in to arrest him, he started to operate the vehicle in the direction of police. The woman, later identified as 36-year-old Heather Giguere of Hyannis, came out of the residence and ignored police commands to stay in the house and got into the vehicle with McNerney. An extended standoff began. Both were given multiple chances to surrender but refused to do so. WPD negotiators and members of the SWAT Team arrived on scene. During the standoff, both were observed using illegal drugs in the vehicle. McNerney told detectives that he had two firearms on him.

At approximately 12:27 AM, McNerney told detectives he was going to surrender. Instead, he put his vehicle in drive and sped off. He traveled through a number of yards in several neighborhoods, until he drove towards Streeter Pond where his vehicle became disabled. Detectives entered the water to take both into custody. 

McNerney resisted arrest and fought with officers over two firearms, which were found on his person. The Crime Scene Unit recovered both firearms. McNerney was also found to have 48.1 grams of crack cocaine in his possession. McNerney and Giguere were both transported to a local hospital to be checked out. Several officers were treated for hypothermia.

Nicolas McNerney is charged with Firearm Use in Felony (x2), Unlawful carry of a firearm (x2), Unlawful carry of a firearm, loaded (x2), Firearm with a defaced serial number, Possession of Ammunition without FID, Trafficking Class B 36-99 grams, Failure to stop for the Police, Unlicensed Operation, Operation to Endanger, Resisting Arrest and the three warrants. Heather Giguere is charged with Interfering with a Police Officer, Possession of Class B Substance and Resisting Arrest.