Tragic Incident on New Hampshire-Maine Bridge
PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — In a distressing sequence of events unfolding Thursday morning, a man was shot and killed by police on the Piscataqua River Bridge, which connects Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to Kittery, Maine. This dramatic encounter came after police pursued the individual in relation to the murder of a woman earlier that night.
Discovery of the Child
Authorities reported the grim discovery of an 8-year-old child found deceased in the man’s vehicle. This heartbreaking turn has left the investigation ongoing, with local officials remaining tight-lipped about specific details related to the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
Details of the Pursuit
The man is suspected of killing a woman at a residence in Troy, New Hampshire, roughly 100 miles away, before making his way to the bridge. The authorities were alerted, leading to a containment of the situation as police confronted the individual early in the morning.
Police Engagement
According to a statement from Attorney General John Formella, the interaction between the man and law enforcement escalated to a critical point, resulting in the officers discharging their firearms. The Maine Attorney General’s Office has taken over the investigation regarding the circumstances of the officer-involved shooting.
Bridge Reopened After Investigation
After being closed for approximately seven hours to facilitate the investigation, the Piscataqua Bridge resumed normal traffic flow. This vital crossing sees a daily use of around 70,000 to 80,000 vehicles, as reported by the Maine Department of Transportation.
Public Safety Assurance
Maine State Police emphasized that there was no ongoing threat to public safety during the unfolding events. The police presence on the scene assured that there was tactical control before traffic could safely return to the bridge.
Case Under Active Investigation
While the identity of the individuals involved has not been disclosed by authorities, the investigation into both the homicide and the subsequent shooting remains active, with police appealing to the public for any information related to the incident.
