Milton, VT – Officer Shot in Apparent Ambush While Responding to Structure Fire; Suspect Barricaded Inside
MILTON, VERMONT (April 23, 2025) – A routine emergency call escalated into a violent confrontation Wednesday evening in the quiet town of Milton, Vermont, when responding officers were met with gunfire upon arriving at the scene of a reported structure fire. Authorities have confirmed that a Milton Police Department officer was shot in what appears to be a deliberate ambush. The alleged shooter, identified as Jesse Roy, 43, of Milton, remains barricaded inside the residence.
Fire Response Turns Deadly
Shortly before 6:30 p.m., local fire and police units were dispatched to a single-family home on River Street after multiple 911 calls reported visible flames and smoke. Initial reports from the Milton Fire Department indicated the possibility of occupants inside the home, prompting an urgent multi-agency response.
However, as officers and firefighters approached the residence, they were met with unexpected and immediate gunfire. Witnesses reported hearing several loud pops, initially assumed to be explosions related to the fire, but later confirmed as gunshots.
One officer, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, was struck and sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. He was transported under escort to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, where he is undergoing treatment. A hospital spokesperson described his condition as “stable but guarded.”
Shooter Identified and Barricaded
The suspect was quickly identified as Jesse Roy, a 43-year-old local resident known to police from prior minor incidents but with no significant criminal history on record. Authorities believe Roy intentionally set the fire and waited for emergency personnel to arrive before opening fire from within the house.
“He was waiting for them,” said Milton Police Chief Sarah Connors during a press briefing late Wednesday night. “This was not a spontaneous act. Based on the preliminary investigation, this was a calculated and targeted ambush.”
The motive behind the attack remains unclear. Sources familiar with the investigation suggest Roy may have been experiencing a mental health crisis, though this has not been confirmed by officials.
Standoff and Ongoing Situation
As of late Wednesday, Roy remains barricaded inside the smoldering residence. Law enforcement, including members of the Vermont State Police Tactical Support Unit and negotiators, have established a perimeter and are in ongoing communication attempts with Roy. Authorities have not disclosed whether anyone else is believed to be inside the house.
“We are working with every resource available to bring this situation to a peaceful resolution,” said Vermont State Police spokesperson Sgt. Lydia Kline. “This is a dangerous and fluid situation. The safety of our officers, first responders, and the surrounding community is our top priority.”
Nearby residents have been evacuated or advised to shelter in place, and roads surrounding the scene have been closed off. Emergency vehicles continue to flood the area, and drones have been deployed to monitor the scene from above.
Community Reaction
The Milton community, typically known for its small-town tranquility and low crime rate, is reeling from the day’s events.
“This is just heartbreaking,” said Laura Benson, a resident who lives two blocks from the scene. “This doesn’t happen here. You see it on the news, not in your own neighborhood.”
Local officials have promised a full investigation into the incident, and Vermont Governor Phil Scott issued a statement late Wednesday expressing his support for law enforcement and emergency responders.
“Our thoughts are with the officer who was injured, his family, and all those involved,” said the governor. “This tragic event is a stark reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day. We owe them our deepest gratitude.”
Investigation Underway
Federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), have joined the investigation. Once the scene is secure, investigators will work to determine how the fire was started, what weapons were used, and whether the attack was premeditated or spontaneous.
Chief Connors confirmed that body-worn camera footage and audio from the scene would be reviewed as part of the investigation. “We’re going to get to the bottom of what happened here,” she stated.
Moving Forward
Counseling services have been made available to first responders and community members impacted by the incident. Schools in the area will remain open Thursday, but with increased police presence and support staff on site.
As Milton waits for the standoff to conclude, the town remains on edge but united. “We’re shaken, yes,” said resident Kevin Mahoney. “But we’re also strong. And we’ll get through this together.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Jesse Roy or the events leading up to Wednesday night’s shooting to contact the Milton Police Department or Vermont State Police.