LEWISTON — Eight teenagers were detained at a College Street apartment early Monday morning as police and drug agents searched for evidence of drug trafficking they believe is connected to rampant gunfire in the downtown area over recent weeks.

Police raid an apartment Monday morning at 100 College St. in Lewiston where they detained eight teenagers for questioning. Police said a search of the apartment resulted in the seizure of over three pounds of marijuana, about $3,400 in suspected drug proceeds and additional evidence of illegal drug trafficking. K. Magnus Knudsen Jr. photo

The teens, ranging from 15 to 19 years old, were interviewed by police and later released, but investigators say multiple charges are expected as their investigation continues.

Police said a search of the apartment resulted in the seizure of over three pounds of marijuana, about $3,400 in suspected drug proceeds and additional evidence of illegal drug trafficking.

Evidence associated with firearms, including various calibers of ammunition, magazines and other firearm-related items were also seized, according to a Maine Department of Public Safety news release.

The raid, considered “high risk” by the teams who went into the apartment house about 5 a.m. Monday, followed a number of incidents leading police to suspect that drug activity at the home may be contributing to gunfire and other problems that have vexed downtown area.

On Wednesday, an unknown shooter opened fire at 100 College St., where bullets peppered an apartment living room. A bullet was recovered from the apartment as evidence, police said.

“This shooting incident was not initially reported to police when it occurred,” according to the release.

On Thursday, Lewiston police stopped a car as the driver left 100 College St., investigators said.

“During the traffic stop, one of the four occupants fled from the police, throwing a firearm as he fled,” according to the release.

The suspect got away, police said, but has since been identified. The firearm that was recovered had been reported stolen from a Lewiston home last year, police said.

On Sunday, Lewiston police responded to the tenement at 100 College St. again for a report of gunfire. Officers discovered that rounds had penetrated several apartments, including apartment 4, which was the scene of the raid Monday.

No one was hurt in that incident.

When the decision was made to execute a search warrant at apartment 4, the operation was deemed a high risk. The Maine State Police Tactical Team went in first and secured the building, rendering it safe for investigators to conduct their search, according to the news release.

The investigation into drug trafficking, violence and gunfire in Lewiston has grown to involve the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Lewiston police and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency are continuing to investigate activity at 100 College St. and other locations around the city.

Police asked that anyone with information about drug trafficking or related crime contact the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency office closest to you or by texting MDEA to TIP411 (847411) or by calling the MDEA tip line at 1-800-452-6457.