Veteran Milton Police Officer Shot in Ambush While Responding to Structure Fire; Massive Law Enforcement Response Continues as Suspect Remains Barricaded
A peaceful Wednesday evening in the quiet town of Milton, Vermont, was shattered by gunfire and chaos when a veteran officer with the Milton Police Department was shot during an emergency response to a reported structure fire near 78 Main Street. What began as a standard call for public safety rapidly escalated into a harrowing ambush that has left both authorities and residents in shock.
Officer Wounded in Apparent Ambush
At approximately 6:45 p.m., emergency responders from the Milton Police Department and Fire Department arrived at the scene following a 911 call about a possible structure fire. Almost immediately after their arrival, shots rang out from within or near the home, striking one of the responding officers.
Preliminary details released late Wednesday night indicate that the officer was shot from behind—potentially in the back—while wearing a bulletproof vest. Despite the protective gear, the impact of the bullet was severe enough to warrant emergency medical intervention.
Milton Rescue personnel, under police escort, swiftly transported the wounded officer to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. As of this report, the officer is undergoing treatment. His name has not been released to the public pending family notification.
Suspect Barricaded, Tense Standoff Continues
Law enforcement quickly secured the area as the suspect responsible for the shooting reportedly retreated into the structure. Tactical units from across Chittenden County and the Vermont State Police responded within minutes. As of Wednesday night, the suspect remains barricaded inside the residence, refusing to surrender.
Police negotiators have been attempting to establish communication in hopes of bringing the volatile situation to a peaceful resolution. Nearby residents were evacuated or told to shelter in place, and the area surrounding Main Street has been closed off to the public.
A Premeditated Trap?
Authorities are investigating the possibility that the fire call may have been a deliberate lure intended to draw in first responders for an ambush. Such a scenario, if confirmed, would represent a chilling escalation in violence against public safety officials.
“This is a dark day for the town of Milton,” said Police Chief Aaron Page in a brief statement to the media. “Our officer was doing his job—protecting this community—and he was met with senseless violence. Our prayers are with him and his family.”
Community Response
The news of the shooting sent shockwaves through the Milton community, where residents quickly turned to social media to share updates, thoughts, and prayers. Local officials and school administrators announced late Wednesday that Milton schools would operate on a two-hour delay on Thursday out of an abundance of caution.
Several local businesses along Main Street have also temporarily shut down, and emergency response units remain on high alert.
Investigation Underway
The Vermont State Police Major Crimes Unit is now leading the investigation in collaboration with the Milton Police Department and federal partners. Authorities are combing through video footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to piece together the timeline and motive behind the shooting.
Anyone with information related to the incident or who may have been in the area at the time is being urged to contact the Vermont State Police tip line.
A Town on Edge, United in Concern
As the situation continues to unfold, Milton—a town known for its close-knit community and low crime rate—is now grappling with a violent act that threatens the very sense of safety that residents cherish. While the identity and condition of the officer remain closely guarded, the town stands united in hope for his recovery and in support of the first responders still managing the crisis.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
