MILTON, VERMONT (April 23, 2025) — What began as a routine emergency response turned into a tense and violent confrontation Wednesday evening in the ordinarily quiet town of Milton, as first responders arrived to find not just flames—but gunfire.
Authorities confirm that a Milton Police Department officer was shot after arriving at the scene of a reported structure fire. The incident unfolded on a residential street where responding units were met with immediate gunfire, leading officials to believe the officer was the victim of a deliberate ambush.
The suspected shooter has been identified as Jesse Roy, 43, a resident of Milton. According to Vermont State Police, Roy remains barricaded inside the home, and a standoff is ongoing as heavily armed tactical units attempt to establish communication and resolve the situation without further violence.
Officer Injured in the Line of Duty
The injured officer, whose name has not yet been released pending family notification, was transported to a local hospital where they are currently being treated. Officials have described the officer’s condition as serious but stable. The entire Milton law enforcement community, as well as departments from across the region, are rallying in support.
“We’re deeply shaken by this act of targeted violence,” said Milton Police Chief Karen Doucette at a late-evening press briefing. “This officer responded to help and was met with bullets. Our focus now is on securing the scene, protecting lives, and bringing Jesse Roy into custody without further harm.”
A Dangerous and Evolving Situation
The incident began just after 5:30 p.m., when emergency dispatch received a call reporting a fire at a private residence. Fire and police units responded promptly, but as they arrived, the situation escalated rapidly into an active shooter scenario.
Multiple agencies, including the Vermont State Police Tactical Services Unit, have been deployed. Nearby homes have been evacuated or placed on lockdown, and residents have been urged to avoid the area altogether.
“We’re asking everyone to stay clear of the immediate neighborhood for their safety and to allow law enforcement to operate without obstruction,” said State Police Spokesperson Lt. Daniel Myers.
A Town in Shock
Milton, a small community located just north of Burlington, is known for its tranquility and close-knit population. Tonight, that peace has been shattered, and the town is now the center of a high-stakes law enforcement operation.
Neighbors described Jesse Roy as quiet but private, and few could have predicted such a violent outburst. Investigators are still working to determine what led to the attack and whether the fire was part of a premeditated plan.
Investigation and Ongoing Coverage
Local and state officials are expected to provide updates as the situation unfolds. The Vermont State Police are leading the investigation into both the shooting and the structure fire, while federal agencies have been alerted as a precaution due to the nature of the ambush.
No Responses