Crime
Milton Police Sgt. Paul Locke Shot in Ambush During Structure Fire Response on Main Street
MILTON, VT — Authorities have identified the officer wounded during an ambush on Wednesday evening in Milton as Sergeant Paul Locke, a veteran member of the Milton Police Department.
The officer was injured when gunfire erupted as public safety personnel responded to a structure fire at a residence located at 78 Main Street.
The incident unfolded shortly before 7:00 p.m., when firefighters and police officers arrived at the scene of a reported residential fire.
According to officials, a suspect inside the home opened fire on first responders, striking Sgt. Locke.
Preliminary information indicates he was shot from behind, possibly in the back, while wearing a bullet-resistant vest.
Additional reports suggest he may also have suffered a gunshot wound to the leg.
Sgt. Locke was immediately transported by Milton Rescue to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington under police escort.
His injuries have been described as non-life-threatening, and he is currently receiving medical treatment.
The Vermont State Police’s Victim Services Unit is providing support to the officer and his family during this time.
The suspected gunman, a 38-year-old Milton resident, is believed to have barricaded himself inside the residence.
He is reportedly known to local law enforcement and has a documented history of mental health struggles.
Posts allegedly made by the suspect on social media reference auditory hallucinations and claims of being under mind control.
The Vermont State Police (VSP) has assumed command of the ongoing situation, which remains active.
A coordinated multi-agency law enforcement response is underway, involving the following VSP units and partner agencies:
- Major Crime Unit
- Bureau of Criminal Investigations
- Field Force Division
- Tactical Services Unit (SWAT)
- Bomb Squad
- Crisis Negotiation Unit
Police departments from across Chittenden and Franklin counties are assisting in securing the area.
At this time, no arrests have been made.
Authorities have emphasized that the threat appears contained to the immediate vicinity of the residence at 78 Main Street.
As of Wednesday night, Main Street remains closed between U.S. Route 7 and the East Road/North Road intersection.
A significant police presence is expected to remain in the area while the investigation and response continue. Members of the public are urged to avoid the area for their safety and to facilitate law enforcement operations.
The Vermont State Police have requested that all media inquiries be directed to the Public Information Office via email.
To ensure emergency communications remain open, the public and media are asked not to call local dispatch centers or barracks.
This remains a dynamic and evolving situation. Further updates will be provided as more information is confirmed.
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.