Spencer, Massachusetts – A tense standoff ended tragically Tuesday night when a suspect was killed, and a Millbury police officer sustained multiple gunshot wounds during a SWAT team operation. This incident unfolded around 5 p.m. when local police received reports of an individual with a gunshot wound on Main Street.
Authorities quickly located the alleged shooter approximately ten minutes later at the Big Y Plaza along Route 9. Spencer Police Chief Michael Befford noted that as officers approached the suspect, he drew a firearm and opened fire on them.
The confrontation escalated when the suspect sought refuge inside a Family Dollar store. Responding officers swiftly evacuated the store and adjacent businesses as the situation developed into a standoff. A SWAT team was summoned to assist. During the intervention, they discovered the suspect barricaded in a bathroom.
According to Chief Befford, during the standoff, the suspect fired his weapon, injuring a Millbury officer. The SWAT team returned fire, resulting in the death of the shooter.
The wounded officer was transported to a local hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition the following morning. Though details are still emerging, sources indicate that the officer’s injuries are serious but not life-threatening. Millbury Police Chief Brian Lewos confirmed that the officer was shot multiple times and urged the community to keep him and his family in their thoughts during this challenging time.
As of now, the identity of the suspect has not been disclosed, leaving the community seeking answers.
Spencer, located about 50 miles west of Boston in Worcester County, is grappling with the aftermath of this violent encounter, which has raised concerns about safety in public places. Local authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and hope to provide further updates as the situation develops.