Sergeant Paul Locke Shot in Ambush During Structure Fire Response on Main Street, Milton, Vermont – Officer Wounded in Attack by Suspect Barricaded Inside Residence

On the evening of April 23, 2025, Milton, Vermont, was the site of a harrowing incident that left Sergeant Paul Locke of the Milton Police Department wounded in an ambush while responding to a structure fire at 78 Main Street. The attack occurred shortly before 7:00 p.m. as first responders arrived at the scene. Sergeant Locke, a veteran officer with the department, was struck by gunfire while wearing a bullet-resistant vest. Preliminary reports suggest he may have also suffered a gunshot wound to the leg. He was immediately transported 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.

Incident Overview

At approximately 6:45 p.m. on April 23, 2025, emergency dispatch received reports of a structure fire at 78 Main Street in Milton. Firefighters and police officers were promptly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, they were met with gunfire from inside the residence. Sergeant Locke was struck by the gunfire while attempting to assess the situation. The suspect, a 38-year-old Milton resident, is believed to have barricaded himself inside the home. 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.

Response and Investigation

The Vermont State Police (VSP) have 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.

Suspect Background

The suspect, identified as a 38-year-old male resident of Milton, has a documented history of mental health issues. He is reportedly known to local law enforcement, though specific details regarding prior encounters have not been disclosed. Social media posts allegedly made by the suspect reference auditory hallucinations and claims of being under mind control. These posts have raised concerns about his mental state leading up to the incident.

Law Enforcement Response

In response to the ambush, the Vermont State Police have activated multiple specialized units to handle the situation. The Major Crime Unit and Bureau of Criminal Investigations are leading the investigation, while the Field Force Division and Tactical Services Unit (SWAT) are managing the tactical response. The Bomb Squad has been deployed to ensure there are no explosive devices in or around the residence. The Crisis Negotiation Unit is working to establish communication with the suspect in an attempt to peacefully resolve the standoff.

Community Impact

The incident has sent shockwaves through the Milton community. Residents have expressed concern over the safety of their neighborhood and the well-being of the first responders involved. Local schools have been placed on heightened alert, and community centers are offering support services to those affected by the event. The Vermont State Police have urged the public to avoid the area to allow law enforcement to conduct their operations without interference.

Ongoing Situation

As of the latest reports, the situation remains active. Authorities continue to work towards a peaceful resolution, but the standoff has not been resolved. 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 to avoid overwhelming the system.

Conclusion

The ambush of Sergeant Paul Locke during the structure fire response on Main Street in Milton is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by first responders. While the situation remains ongoing, the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies aim to bring it to a peaceful conclusion. The community’s support for Sergeant Locke and all first responders is crucial during this challenging time.

Further Updates

As this is a developing story, further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Authorities are working diligently to resolve the situation and ensure the safety of all involved.

Contact Information

For more information, the public is encouraged to visit the Vermont State Police website or contact the Public Information Office via email. Please avoid calling local dispatch centers or barracks to ensure emergency communications remain open.