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Fatal Shooting in Barre, Vermont: Vermont State Police Leading Investigation After 45-Year-Old Man’s Death
BARRE, Vermont (Friday, April 25, 2025) — The city of Barre is grappling with shock and grief today following a tragic shooting that claimed the life of a 45-year-old man. The incident, which occurred late Thursday evening, has prompted an extensive investigation now being led by the Vermont State Police, in collaboration with local Barre City officers and the Washington County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Authorities were first alerted to the situation shortly before 9:00 p.m. Thursday, when multiple 911 calls reported gunfire in a residential neighborhood near the heart of Barre. Responding officers arrived at the scene within minutes to find the victim critically wounded. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency medical personnel, the man was pronounced dead early Friday morning at a nearby hospital.
As of Friday afternoon, officials had not released the identity of the victim, pending notification of his family. Law enforcement agencies have been tight-lipped about many details of the case, citing the early and sensitive stage of the investigation. However, police have confirmed that they believe there is no ongoing threat to the public.
“The Vermont State Police Major Crime Unit has assumed primary responsibility for this investigation,” said a statement released Friday morning. “Our detectives are working diligently to determine the circumstances that led to this tragic loss of life. We are committed to a thorough and impartial investigation.”
Investigators spent much of Friday morning canvassing the area, speaking with residents, collecting physical evidence, and reviewing footage from neighborhood security cameras. The scene remained cordoned off with crime scene tape as forensic teams combed through the area for any clues.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and described a chaotic scene, with neighbors rushing out of their homes in confusion and fear. “It all happened so fast,” said a woman who lives a few houses down from the shooting site. “One minute it was quiet, the next there were sirens and flashing lights everywhere.”
Local residents expressed a mixture of sadness and concern over the violence. Barre, known for its close-knit community and quiet neighborhoods, has seen an uptick in violent incidents over the past year, sparking conversations about public safety and community resources.
Mayor Lucas Whitaker issued a statement early Friday afternoon expressing condolences to the victim’s family and urging patience as authorities conduct their investigation. “Our hearts are heavy today as we come together to mourn the loss of one of our community members,” the statement read. “I want to assure the public that we are doing everything possible to support the ongoing investigation and to ensure that justice is served.”
The Washington County State’s Attorney’s Office has confirmed it will review any findings by the Vermont State Police and determine what charges, if any, will be filed in connection with the case. At this time, no arrests have been announced.
Police have asked anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. “We know that members of the community may have seen or heard something important,” said Detective Sergeant Mark Davidson of the Vermont State Police. “Even the smallest detail can make a difference in an investigation like this.”
Counseling services have also been made available to residents affected by the tragedy. Local organizations, including the Barre Community Justice Center, have opened their doors for grief counseling and support sessions throughout the weekend.
As Barre mourns, many are left with questions about what led to the deadly encounter — and how the community can work together to prevent future violence. Authorities are expected to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to call the Vermont State Police at 802-229-9191 or submit an anonymous tip online.
This story will continue to be updated as new developments emerge.
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