AUBURN, Maine – Police in Maine fatally shot a man early Saturday morning after he allegedly fired at officers during a chaotic series of events that led to fires at two homes in Auburn. The man was identified as 43-year-old Leein Hinkley, who had recently been released on bail following a probation violation related to a previous conviction for domestic violence and aggravated assault.
The incident began with a 911 call from a woman reporting a man attempting to break into her home on Russell Avenue in Auburn. Shots were heard during the call, and the woman managed to escape through a window but was later heard screaming when the house caught fire. Another man involved in the altercation was unaccounted for, according to police.
Hinkley reportedly shot at Auburn police officers who responded to the scene and then took shelter in a neighboring garage. As the situation escalated, fires broke out at two homes on Russell Avenue, with one burning to the ground and another sustaining damage. Hinkley then fled to another home in the area, where he climbed onto the roof and brandished a weapon.
Members of the Maine State Police tactical team ultimately shot and killed Hinkley on the roof of the home after a standoff that lasted several hours. The officers involved have been placed on leave, following standard procedure after a shooting involving law enforcement.
Deputy Chief Timothy Cougle described the events as “intense and tragic,” emphasizing the impact on the Auburn community. The incident has sparked concerns among residents, particularly in the aftermath of previous violent events in the area.
The authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the fires, as they work to piece together the sequence of events that unfolded during the early hours of Saturday morning in Auburn.