Ms. Mode conceded that there was no evidence about what might have precipitated the attack.

Ms. Mode said the officers determined that the license for the gun had expired in 1995.

"The case has not gone to court yet," Ms. Mode said.

Ms. Mode doesn't mince words, which is half the delight.

Ms. Mode said the information was being released now because investigators had been unable to find the witness.

Ms. Mode was out of town yesterday and could not be reached for comment.

Ms. Mode said she could not comment on possible reasons for the resignation.

Ms. Mode added that there was no reason for residents to be alarmed.

Ms. Mode, who had long wanted to write a play set in a restaurant, thought his experiences might be a jumping-off place.

Ms. Mode said that beefing up the number of officers in drug operations had been extremely effective.