On the evening of April 23, 2025, the quiet town of Milton, Vermont, became the site of a harrowing incident that left Sergeant Paul Locke, a veteran officer 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, who has served the department with distinction, was struck by gunfire while wearing a bullet-resistant vest. Preliminary reports suggest that 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. Fortunately, 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 offering support to Sergeant Locke and his family during this challenging time.
The incident unfolded rapidly at approximately 6:45 p.m. on April 23, when emergency dispatchers received reports of a structure fire at 78 Main Street. First responders, including firefighters and police officers, were promptly dispatched to the scene to assess the situation. Upon arrival, they were met with gunfire emanating from inside the residence. Sergeant Locke, who was attempting to assess the scene and secure the area, was struck by the gunfire. The suspect, identified as a 38-year-old Milton resident, is believed to have barricaded himself inside the home. Local law enforcement is familiar with the individual, who 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, raising concerns about his state of mind prior to the incident.
In response to the ambush and the ongoing danger posed by the suspect, the Vermont State Police (VSP) took command of the situation. A coordinated multi-agency law enforcement response is currently underway, with several VSP units and partner agencies involved in managing the crisis. The Major Crime Unit and the 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 also been deployed to ensure that there are no explosive devices in or around the residence. The Crisis Negotiation Unit is actively working to establish communication with the suspect in an attempt to peacefully resolve the standoff.
As of the latest reports, the situation remains active. Police have secured the area around the residence, and the suspect remains barricaded inside the home. Main Street in Milton is currently closed between U.S. Route 7 and the East Road/North Road intersection, with a significant police presence expected to remain in the area. Authorities have asked the public to avoid the area to ensure the safety of both law enforcement personnel and local residents, as well as to facilitate ongoing operations.
The suspect, a 38-year-old male resident of Milton, has a history of mental health issues. He is reportedly known to local law enforcement, though specific details about prior encounters have not been disclosed. Social media posts allegedly made by the suspect raise further concerns about his mental state, with references to auditory hallucinations and claims of being under mind control. These posts have further complicated the situation, as they suggest the individual may be experiencing severe psychological distress. Law enforcement is working to assess the situation and ensure that a peaceful resolution can be achieved.
In addition to the law enforcement response, the local community has been deeply affected by the incident. Residents of Milton, many of whom know Sergeant Locke personally, have expressed their concern over the safety of the neighborhood and the well-being of the first responders involved in the standoff. The response to the ambush has prompted local schools to go on heightened alert, and community centers have been offering support services for those affected by the event. The Vermont State Police has urged the public to stay clear of the area to allow law enforcement to conduct their operations without interference.
As part of the law enforcement response, local police departments from Chittenden and Franklin counties are assisting in securing the area. The Vermont State Police has emphasized that the threat appears to be contained to the immediate vicinity of the residence at 78 Main Street. At this time, no arrests have been made, and authorities have been working diligently to ensure the safety of the community. The crisis negotiation team remains in close contact with the suspect, hoping to reach a peaceful resolution to the standoff.
While the situation remains ongoing, the bravery and dedication of the first responders, including Sergeant Locke, are at the forefront of this crisis. The ambush has sent shockwaves through the community, reminding everyone of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers daily as they work to protect the public. Sergeant Locke’s injuries, though non-life-threatening, highlight the risks that police officers face while responding to emergency situations. His courage in the face of danger, and his commitment to the safety of others, are qualities that define his long career in law enforcement.
The Vermont State Police has also activated the Victim Services Unit, which is providing support to Sergeant Locke and his family during this time. The unit is assisting with both emotional and logistical support as the investigation and response continue. The public has been encouraged to offer support and prayers for Sergeant Locke’s recovery, and many have taken to social media to express their well-wishes and solidarity with the officer and his family.
As the situation continues to develop, the authorities remain committed to resolving the standoff peacefully. Law enforcement personnel are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of the community and to bring the incident to a conclusion without further violence. While the outcome of the standoff remains uncertain, the coordinated efforts of the Vermont State Police and its partner agencies demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement to protecting both officers and the public in high-risk situations.
This tragic event underscores the risks faced by first responders, who routinely put their lives on the line to protect the communities they serve. It also highlights the critical importance of mental health support and intervention in preventing such incidents. The suspect’s history of mental health struggles has raised questions about the need for greater access to mental health care and resources, particularly in communities like Milton. While the focus remains on resolving the situation at hand, it is clear that the impact of this event will be felt by the community for some time.
In the wake of the ambush, the support from the community has been overwhelming. Residents, friends, and colleagues have rallied behind Sergeant Locke, expressing their gratitude for his service and their hopes for his swift recovery. The outpouring of support speaks to the deep respect that the community has for the men and women in law enforcement, and the recognition of the sacrifices they make to keep everyone safe.
At present, no official statement has been released regarding the suspect’s current condition or the specifics of the ongoing standoff. However, authorities continue to urge the public to remain patient and allow law enforcement to carry out their operations. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more details become available.
For more information on the ongoing situation, 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 that emergency communications remain open.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that first responders face every day. As the Vermont State Police and their partners work to resolve the situation, we continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to Sergeant Locke, his family, and all those involved in the response to this tragic event. The hope is that this crisis will be resolved peacefully, and that Sergeant Locke will make a full and speedy recovery from his injuries.
Note: This article is based on information available as of the publication date. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
