Crime
Officer Shot in Ambush During Structure Fire Response in Milton
MILTON, VT — A veteran officer with the Milton Police Department was wounded Wednesday evening after gunfire erupted during a public safety response to a structure fire in the area of 78 Main Street, authorities confirmed.
The officer, whose name is being withheld pending notification of family, was transported under police escort by Milton Rescue to University of Vermont Medical Center, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.
According to preliminary reports, the officer was shot from behind — possibly in the back — while wearing a bulletproof vest.
Additional reports indicate the officer may have also sustained a gunshot wound to the leg.
The incident began around 7:00 p.m. when public safety officials responded to a fire at a residential structure.
During the response, a suspect opened fire, injuring the officer.
The suspect — identified as a 38-year-old male resident of Milton — is reportedly barricaded inside the residence.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the individual is well-known to police and has a history of mental health issues.
Posts on social media reportedly attributed to the suspect mention auditory hallucinations and claims of being under mind control.
The Vermont State Police (VSP) has assumed command of the ongoing situation.
In a statement released Wednesday night, VSP confirmed this is an active emergency response involving multiple agencies, including:
- VSP Major Crime Unit
- Bureau of Criminal Investigations
- Field Force Division
- Tactical Services Unit (SWAT)
- Bomb Squad
- Crisis Negotiation Unit
Local, county, state, and federal law enforcement personnel are on site and responding.
Officials have emphasized that the situation appears contained to the immediate vicinity, but members of the public are urged to avoid the area due to the ongoing law enforcement activity.
Media inquiries are being directed to the Vermont State Police Public Information Office via email.
VSP has requested that the public and media refrain from calling local barracks or dispatch centers to ensure emergency communications remain open.
This remains a fluid and active investigation.
Further updates will be released as verified information becomes available.
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody following a shooting incident at the Meridian Mall on Friday afternoon.
As a result, the lockdown at the mall has been lifted.
The Meridian Township Police Department issued a public advisory just before 2:00 p.m., urging residents and shoppers to avoid the area near the Dick’s Sporting Goods entrance while officers conducted an active investigation at the scene.
At this time, police have not released specific details regarding the nature of the shooting, including whether anyone was injured or the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the incident and are expected to provide additional information as it becomes available.
The public is asked to remain clear of the immediate area to allow for the ongoing investigation.