Milton, DE – 44-Year-Old Gregory Painter Fatally Shot by Delaware State Police Following Pursuit and Armed Confrontation
MILTON, Del. — A chaotic scene unfolded in Sussex County on Thursday, May 1, ending in the fatal shooting of Gregory Painter, 44, of Milford, Delaware, after Delaware State Police say he charged at troopers with a knife following a vehicle pursuit and forced entry into a private residence.
According to authorities, the incident began around 3:56 p.m., when multiple 911 callers reported a red Ford F-150 being driven erratically on Lewes-Georgetown Highway near Harbeson Road. Callers described the vehicle swerving into oncoming lanes and driving along the shoulder, raising concerns about a potentially impaired driver.
Delaware State Police troopers quickly responded and located the vehicle on Coolspring Road near Fisher Road. When they attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the driver—later identified as Gregory Painter—refused to pull over, sparking a high-speed chase through rural and residential roads in the Milton area.
The pursuit came to a halt when the suspect pulled into a driveway on the 28000 block of West Springside Drive, located within the Cool Spring Farms community. From there, the situation escalated rapidly.
Authorities say Painter exited the vehicle armed with a knife and ran into a nearby home that he did not own. The house was occupied at the time, but it is unclear whether any physical contact occurred between Painter and the residents. After a brief entry, he exited the residence still wielding the knife.
Despite multiple commands from troopers to drop the weapon and stop advancing, police say Painter continued to move toward them while holding the knife in a threatening manner. In response, both troopers discharged their service weapons.
Troopers immediately provided first aid to Painter until emergency medical personnel arrived. However, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities initially withheld the man’s identity pending notification of next of kin but have since confirmed him as Gregory Painter, 44, of Milford.
As is standard protocol in officer-involved shootings, both troopers involved have been placed on administrative leave pending a full investigation. The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is leading the inquiry, with oversight and involvement from the Delaware Department of Justice, which will review the use of deadly force.
Investigators are now seeking any additional eyewitnesses or individuals with relevant information. The public is urged to contact Detective B. McDerby at 302-741-2821, or to leave anonymous tips via Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
The incident has raised concerns in the local community regarding police protocol, mental health, and de-escalation tactics, though officials have emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages and no further conclusions have been made.
This remains a developing story, and further details will be released as the investigation progresses.