The Vermont State Police disseminates news releases for significant criminal or public safety incidents and arrests. These releases are not intended to document every public contact or response to a call-for-service. If you have a question regarding an incident or case, please contact your local state police barracks or the public information officer. Please note news releases are available on this blog for at least 30 days following their public release. Releases are generally archived the second month after publication. Please contact the public information officer if you need access to one that is older.

Search This Blog

October 8, 2026

Berlin Barracks / Fugitive from justice

 

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

CASE#: 26A3008413                           

STATION: Berlin Barracks                    

CONTACT#: 802-299-9191

 

DATE/TIME: Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 at 1216 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Vermont Route 100 / Sugarbush Access Road, Warren, VT

 

ACCUSED: Ryan Hanafin                                             

AGE: 22

 

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

The Vermont State Police arrested a man Thursday afternoon, Oct. 8, 2026, who was wanted in Massachusetts in connection with a homicide investigation.

 

Troopers located and arrested 22-year-old Ryan Hanafin driving on Vermont Route 100 south of the Sugarbush Access Road at about 2:30 p.m., conducted a motor vehicle stop, and arrested him without incident.

 

The VSP investigation began at about 12:15 p.m. Thursday when the Massachusetts State Police notified local authorities that they believed Hanafin was in Vermont and was a person of interest in a homicide that had occurred in Reading, Massachusetts. Troopers from the Berlin Barracks responded to the area of Warren, Vermont, where Hanafin was believed to frequent and began searching for him.

 

About two hours later, VSP troopers observed Hanafin and, with assistance from the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, took him into custody without incident. Hanafin was detained and transported to the Berlin Barracks. Processing is underway, and no details are available at this time about his bail status or initial court appearance.

 

The Vermont State Police is in communication with the Massachusetts State Police as MSP’s investigation continues. VSP will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

 

- 30 -

 

Update No. 1: VSP provides update on Williston police shooting

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

Vermont State Police provides update on Williston police shooting

 

WILLISTON, Vermont (Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026) — The investigation into Thursday morning’s police shooting remains active and ongoing.

 

The man who was shot was treated at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington for a gunshot wound to his hip and subsequently released.

 

The Williston police officer who fired his department-issued handgun was evaluated for a minor injury at the hospital and released. Per protocol, the officer has been placed on paid administrative leave.

 

According to initial investigation by the Vermont State Police, the shooting occurred at about 4:50 a.m. when the driver of a car had approached a road hazard, reported as wires down across Route 2A, where Williston police officers had responded and were working in the roadway. The details and circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under active investigation.

 

State police detectives are interviewing witnesses, reviewing video including from Williston police cruisers and body-worn cameras, and gathering evidence. The Vermont State Police Crime Scene Search Team processed the location of the shooting, near 5479 St. George Rd., also known as Route 2A. The state road has been closed since the incident occurred but is expected to be re-opened by 4 p.m.

 

Maj. Ashley Barnes, commander of the VSP’s Criminal Division, will be available at the Williston Barracks at 4:45 p.m. to speak with members of the news media regarding this investigation.

 

 

***Initial news release, 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026***

The Vermont State Police is investigating after a member of the Williston Police Department shot and injured a man on Vermont Route 2A early Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026.

 

The man who was shot was taken to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. The extent of his injuries is unknown at this time.

 

The shooting occurred shortly after 5 a.m. along the state route between Butternut Road and Old Creamery Road. No details are currently available regarding the circumstances leading up to the shooting.

 

Route 2A is closed between Butternut Road and Old Creamery Road while the investigation proceeds.

 

This investigation is in its earliest stages and includes detectives with the Vermont State Police Major Crime Unit and Bureau of Criminal Investigations, uniformed troopers from the Field Force Division, the Crime Scene Search Team and the Victim Services Unit. The Vermont Highway Patrol and Shelburne Police Department are providing assistance.

 

The name of the man who was shot will be released following further investigation and notification of relatives.

 

Following standard protocol, the Vermont State Police will withhold the name of the police officer involved for at least 24 hours. At the conclusion of the investigation, VSP will hand over the case to the Vermont Attorney General’s Office and the relevant county state’s attorney’s office for independent reviews of the legal justification for the use of force.

 

Anyone with information that could assist in this investigation is asked to call the state police barracks in Williston at 802-878-7111 or provide an anonymous tip online at https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.

 

No additional information is currently available. The state police will provide updates as the case develops.

 

- 30 -

Westminster Barracks / Request For Information

VSP News Release - Request for Information

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B1008882

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Karson Kruger

STATION: Westminster Barracks                 

CONTACT#: (802) 722-4600

 

DATE/TIME: 10/07/2026, Evening hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Guilford, Vermont

VIOLATION: Theft  

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

 

On the above date and time, Troopers from the Vermont State Police were notified of an electric bike that was stolen near the covered bridge in Guilford, Vermont. There is a photo of the bicycle attached.

 

The investigation into the matter remains active. Anyone with information regarding where the bike is located is asked to contact Trooper Karson Kruger at 802-722-4600 or Karson.Kruger@vermont.gov

 

Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the Vermont State Police Tip Submission Page or by texting the keyword “VTIPS” to 274637 (CRIMES).

 

 

 

Uploaded Image

Derby Barracks / Arrest / Aggravated Assault

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26A5005801

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME:  Trooper James Gallup                            

STATION:  Derby                  

CONTACT#: 802-334-8881

 

DATE/TIME: On 10/7/2026

INCIDENT LOCATION: Main Street, Orleans Village

VIOLATION: Aggravated Assault

 

ACCUSED: Lucian Mason                                              

AGE: 46

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Glover, VT

 

VICTIM: Kenneth Bacon

AGE: 42

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Barton, VT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On 10/7/2026 at approximately 0648 hours, the State Police received a report of an alleged assault that occurred where Kenneth Bacon had been injured by a knife. Investigation revealed an argument took place inside a local business between Kenneth Bacon and Lucian Mason. Troopers learned both males exited the business and continued their argument. Through investigation, Troopers learned Mason drew a knife and allegedly attempted to stab Bacon resulting in a Bacon receiving a minor cut to his hand. Troopers located Mason and placed him under arrest. Mason was transported to the Derby Barracks for processing and was later transported to Northern State Correctional Facility where he was held on 1,000.00 dollars bail.

 

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: 10/8/2026, at 1230 hours         

COURT: Orleans Superior Court

LODGED - LOCATION: Northern State Correctional Facility 

BAIL: 1,000.00

MUG SHOT: INCLUDED

 

 

 

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

 

Uploaded Image

Royalton Barracks / DUI

 

 

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B2005735

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Tpr. Sean Mulderry                             

STATION:  Royalton                   

CONTACT#: 802-234-9933

 

DATE/TIME: 10-8-26 / 0014

INCIDENT LOCATION: I-89 MM 23 Royalton VT

VIOLATION: Driving Under the Influence

 

ACCUSED: Thomas Bresee                                              

AGE: 21

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Northfield, VT

 

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On 10-8-26, at approximately 0014, Troopers assigned to VSP-Royalton were called a vehicle off the roadway and during the investigation, the operator, Thomas Bresee, showed indicators of impairment. Bresee was placed under arrest for suspicion of DUI. He was transported to the Royalton Barracks for processing, where he was released on a citation to appear in Windsor County Criminal Court on 11-10-26 at 0815.

 

 

COURT ACTION: Y

COURT DATE/TIME: 11-10-26 / 0815           

COURT: Windsor

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A     

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: Y

 

 

 

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

 

 

 

Uploaded Image

Re: Traffic Alert - VT Route 100, Wardsboro, VT

Roadway is now open.

From: Deslauriers, Katherine via DPS.VSPMedia <dps.vspmedia@list.vermont.gov>
Sent: Thursday, October 8, 2026 12:00 AM
To: DPS - Roadway Alert <DPS.RoadwayAlert@vermont.gov>
Subject: Traffic Alert - VT Route 100, Wardsboro, VT
 
EXTERNAL SENDER: Do not open attachments or click on links unless you recognize and trust the sender.

State of Vermont
Department of Public Safety
Vermont State Police
Westminster

News Release – Highway / Traffic Notification
VT Route 100, Wardsboro, VT has both lanes obstructed in the area of Meadow Wood Ln due to a law enforcement incident.

This incident is expected to last for expected to be a long duration incident.  Specific details are not yet available, updates will be provided as appropriate.
 
Motorists should expect delays in the area or seek alternate routes.  Please drive carefully.

Update No. 1: Rutland Barracks / Runaway Juvenile

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

CASE#: 26B4007052

RANK / TROOPER FULL NAME: Detective Sgt. Jesse Robson

STATION: VSP Rutland                    

CONTACT#: 802-773-9101

 

DATE/TIME: About 6:35 a.m. Sept. 16, 2026

INCIDENT LOCATION: Euclid St, Pawlet, Vermont

INCIDENT: Missing person

 

JUVENILE: Faith Baker

AGE: 15

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Pawlet, Vermont

 

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

The Vermont State Police is continuing to investigate the non-suspicious disappearance of 15-year-old Faith Baker of Pawlet. She was reported missing after running away from her home on Sept. 16, 2026.

 

Baker has known associations with Granville, New York, and might be in that area. She also has a history of seeking assistance from people affiliated with churches or religious groups.

 

Investigators ask any member of the public who might have knowledge of Baker’s whereabouts or her plans to contact VSP’s barracks in Rutland at 802-773-9101. Anonymous tips can be provided online at https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.

 

 

***Initial news release, 4:55 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026***

On 9/16/2026, at approximately 0637 hours, Troopers from the Vermont State Police Rutland Barracks were notified of a runaway juvenile at Euclid St, Pawlet, Vermont.

 

The juvenile, Faith Baker (15), was last seen on 9/21/2026 between 4:00-5:00 PM in Granville, New York, near the foot bridge behind the Slate Valley Museum. Faith was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, white shorts, white shoes, and a black and white tie-dyed mini backpack.

 

Although the circumstances are not considered suspicious there are concerns about her welfare. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Vermont State Police at 802-773-9101 or if she is seen in Granville, New York, to contact Granville Police Department at 518-642-1414.

 

Attached is a recent photo of Faith.

 

- 30 -

 

Uploaded Image

VSP investigates shooting of man by Williston police officer

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

Vermont State Police investigates shooting of man by Williston police officer

 

WILLISTON, Vermont (Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026) — The Vermont State Police is investigating after a member of the Williston Police Department shot and injured a man on Vermont Route 2A early Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026.

 

The man who was shot was taken to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. The extent of his injuries is unknown at this time.

 

The shooting occurred shortly after 5 a.m. along the state route between Butternut Road and Old Creamery Road. No details are currently available regarding the circumstances leading up to the shooting.

 

Route 2A is closed between Butternut Road and Old Creamery Road while the investigation proceeds.

 

This investigation is in its earliest stages and includes detectives with the Vermont State Police Major Crime Unit and Bureau of Criminal Investigations, uniformed troopers from the Field Force Division, the Crime Scene Search Team, and the Victim Services Unit. The Vermont Highway Patrol and Shelburne Police Department are providing assistance.

 

The name of the man who was shot will be released following further investigation and notification of relatives.

 

Following standard protocol, the Vermont State Police will withhold the name of the police officer involved for at least 24 hours. At the conclusion of the investigation, VSP will hand over the case to the Vermont Attorney General’s Office and the relevant county state’s attorney’s office for independent reviews of the legal justification for the use of force.

 

Anyone with information that could assist in this investigation is asked to call the state police barracks in Williston at 802-878-7111 or provide an anonymous tip online at https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.

 

No additional information is currently available. The state police will provide updates as the case develops.

 

- 30 -

 

Derby Barracks / 1st Degree Aggravated Domestic Assault X2

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26A5005821

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Richard Berlandy                          

STATION: Derby

CONTACT#: 802-334-8881

 

DATE/TIME: 10/07/2026 @ 2305 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: S Pleasant St, Troy, VT

VIOLATION: 1st Degree Aggravated Domestic Assault (x2)

 

ACCUSED: Hunter Uhlendorff                                             

AGE: 33

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Troy, VT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On the above date and time, the Vermont State Police received a report of a domestic dispute that occurred on S Pleasant St in Troy, VT. Troopers from the Vermont State Police Derby barracks responded to the residence. Investigation revealed Hunter Uhlendorff attempted to cause serious bodily injury to multiple household members. Uhlendorff was placed under arrest and transported to the Vermont State Police Derby Barracks for processing. Uhlendorff was held without bail and lodged at Northern State Correctional Facility.  Uhlendorff was issued a citation to appear in Orleans County Superior Court on 10/08/2026 at 12:30 PM.

 

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: 10/09/2026 @ 1230          

COURT: Orleans

LODGED - LOCATION: Northern State Correctional Facility

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: AVAILABLE

 

 

 

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

 

Uploaded Image

Derby Barracks/Multiple Violations

VSP News Release-Incident
STATE OF VERMONT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
VERMONT STATE POLICE

CASE#: 26A5005799
RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Jacob Shores
STATION: Derby
CONTACT#: 802-334-8881

DATE/TIME: 10/06/2026 @ 2034 Hours
INCIDENT LOCATION: US Route 5, Newport, VT
VIOLATION(S):
1. Eluding a Police Officer
2. Excessive Speed

ACCUSED: Travis Clairmont
AGE: 42
CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Burlington, VT

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:
On 10/6/2026, at approximately 2035 hours, Troopers from the Derby Barracks attempted to stop a black Jeep Grand Cherokee for a speed violation and lane violations. The vehicle in question was traveling south on US Route 5 in Newport at 51mph in a posted 35mph. A motor vehicle stop was attempted, the vehicle failed to yield to blue emergency lights and siren. Troopers disengaged with the vehicle.

The vehicle, a 2020 black Jeep Grand Cherokee was later located by Newport City Police and the operator identified as Travis Clairmont, 42 of Burlington VT. After a brief pursuit by Newport City Police, Clairmont was taken into custody without further incident on E Main St in Newport City.

Clairmont received additional charges from Newport Police along with the above charges from Vermont State Police. Newport Police lodged Clairmont for lack of $1,500.00 bail and ordered to appear in Orleans County Superior Court on 10/7/2026 at 1230 hours.

COURT ACTION: Yes
COURT DATE/TIME: 10/7/2026 at 1230 hours
COURT: Orleans Superior Court
LODGED – Northern State Correctional Facility
BAIL: $1,500.00
MUG SHOT: NA

Sergeant Abigail Drew

Patrol Commander

Derby Barracks

35 Crawford Road

Derby, VT 05829

802-334-8881

Royalton Barracks / DUI, DLS

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B2005734

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Tpr Ryan Miller                             

STATION:  Royalton                   

CONTACT#: 802-234-9933

 

DATE/TIME: 10-8-26 / 0010

INCIDENT LOCATION: US Route 4 Hartford

VIOLATION: Driving Under the Influence, Driving After Suspension - Criminal

 

ACCUSED: Justin Connors                                              

AGE: 45

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Hartford, VT

 

VICTIM: (The Vermont State Police does not release the names of victims of

sexual assault or domestic violence.)

AGE:

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE:

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On 10-8-26, at approximately 0010, a trooper assigned to VSP-Royalton observed a vehicle traveling on US Route 4 in Hartford at 60 MPH in a 40 MPH zone. The trooper conducted a stop and during the investigation learned the operator, Justin Connors, had a criminally suspended license for a prior DUI conviction and showed indicators of impairment. Connors was placed under arrest for driving on a suspended license and suspicion of DUI. He was transported to Hartford PD for processing where he was released on a citation to appear in Windsor County Criminal Court on 10-27-26 at 0830.

 

 

COURT ACTION: Y

COURT DATE/TIME: 10-27-26 / 0830           

COURT: Windsor

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A     

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: INDICATE NOT AVAILABLE

 

 

 

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

 

Trooper Ryan Miller & K9 Fynn

Vermont State Police

Royalton Barracks – Troop B

2011 VT Route 107

Bethel, VT 05032

802-234-9933

 

St. Johnsbury Barracks / DUI #1

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

      

CASE#: 26A4010340

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Chris Santic                     

STATION:  St. Johnsbury                  

CONTACT#: 802-748-3111

 

DATE/TIME: 10/07/2026 at 1912 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: US Rt 5 / S Wheelock, Lyndon, VT

VIOLATION: DUI #1

 

ACCUSED: Charlie Mosher

AGE: 59

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Lyndon, VT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On the above date and time Troopers from the St. Johnsbury Barracks were on routine patrol in the town of Lyndon, VT. Troopers observed a motor vehicle violation and subsequently conducted a motor vehicle stop. During the stop, Troopers detected signs of impairment. Mosher was arrested for suspicion of DUI and transported to the St. Johnsbury Barracks for processing. Mosher was later issued a citation to appear in Caledonia County Superior Court – Criminal Division and released.

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: 10/26/2026 at 0830 hours          

COURT: Caledonia County Superior Court-Criminal Division

LODGED - LOCATION:  N/A   

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: Attached

 

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

 

 

Trooper Chris Santic

Vermont State Police-St. Johnsbury

1068 US RT 5, Suite 1

St. Johnsbury, Vermont

Phone: (802) 748-3111 ext 3

 

Traffic Alert - VT Route 100, Wardsboro, VT

State of Vermont
Department of Public Safety
Vermont State Police
Westminster

News Release – Highway / Traffic Notification
VT Route 100, Wardsboro, VT has both lanes obstructed in the area of Meadow Wood Ln due to a law enforcement incident.

This incident is expected to last for expected to be a long duration incident.  Specific details are not yet available, updates will be provided as appropriate.
 
Motorists should expect delays in the area or seek alternate routes.  Please drive carefully.

October 7, 2026

Rutland Barracks / Eluding


VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B4007570

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Eric Jakubowski

STATION: Rutland Barracks               

CONTACT#: 802-773-9101

 

DATE/TIME: October 5th, 2026 @ 1345 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: US Route 4 / Exit 5, Castleton, VT

VIOLATION: Eluding a Police Officer

 

ACCUSED: Kayla Muzzy                                              

AGE: 39

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Fair Haven, VT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On 10/05/2026, at approximately 1345 hours, Troopers with Vermont State Police attempted to conduct a motor vehicle stop on US Route 4 in Castleton after an observed motor vehicle violation. The vehicle failed to stop, despite emergency blue lights and sirens, and continued driving westbound on US Route 4. The vehicle was ultimately stopped on US Route 4 near Exit 2 in Fair Haven, VT with the assistance of the Vermont Highway Patrol. The operator was identified as Kayla Muzzy who was found to be operating with a civilly suspended driver’s license. Muzzy was arrested for Eluding a Police Officer and subsequently transported to the Vermont State Police Rutland Barracks for processing. Muzzy was released with a citation and is scheduled to appear in Vermont Superior Court, Rutland Criminal Division on 12/14/2026 at 1000 hours. Muzzy was issued Vermont Civil Violation Complaints for the observed speeding violation and operating with a suspended driver’s license  

 

Troopers were assisted by the Vermont Highway Patrol and Rutland Town Police Department.

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: 12/14/2026 at 1000 hours.           

COURT: Vermont Superior Court – Criminal Division Rutland

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A

BAIL: N/A

MUGSHOT: Included

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

 

St. Albans Barracks / Motor Vehicle Crash

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

 

NEWS RELEASE

MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH

                                                                                                      

CASE#: 26A2006670

TROOPER: Jared Blair                                                         

STATION: St. Albans                 

CONTACT#: 802-524-5993

 

DATE/TIME: October 7, 2026 @ 0634 hours

LOCATION: Vt Rt 104, Fairfax, VT

WEATHER: Clear

ROAD COND: Dry

 

VEHICLE #1

OPERATOR: Raina Fiarkoski

AGE: 28

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Fairfax, VT

 

DESCRIPTION OF VEHICLE: 2025 Subaru Forester

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE: Front passenger side, hood, roof

 

INJURIES: None

HOSPITAL: N/A                  

 

SUMMARY OF CRASH:

 

On October 7, 2026, at approximately 0634 hours, Troopers from the Vermont State Police – St. Albans Barracks were dispatched to the report of a single vehicle crash near 2595 Main St in the town of Fairfax. Troopers responded to the scene and located a 2025 Subaru Forester on the north side of the roadway in the ditch with a snapped power pole behind the vehicle with lines down.

 

Preliminary investigation established that the operator of the Subaru was Raina Fiarkoski (28) of Fairfax, Vt. No injury was reported. She was wearing her seatbelt and the airbags did deploy. It appears VEH 1 left the right-hand side of the roadway, traveled down the ditch until striking a power pole.

 

The Vermont State Police were assisted at the scene of the crash by Thompson’s Towing, Fairfax Fire Department, Fairfax Rescue and Green Mountain Power.

 

 

Trooper Jared Blair

Vermont State Police

St. Albans Barracks

140 Fisher Pond Rd

St. Albans, VT 05478

(802)-524-5993

jared.blair@vermont.gov

Uploaded Image

 

Shaftsbury Barracks / Sexual Assault & Aggravated Domestic Assault

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B3005435

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Michael Arel                            

STATION: Shaftsbury Barracks                    

CONTACT#: (802) 442-5421

 

DATE/TIME: 10/07/2026 | 0008 Hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Readsboro, VT

VIOLATION:

  • Sexual Assault
  • 1st Degree Aggravated Domestic Assault

 

ACCUSED: Aiden Bimmler                                            

AGE: 24

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Readsboro, VT

 

VICTIM: (The Vermont State Police does not release the names of victims of sexual assault or domestic violence.)

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT:

On October 07, 2026, the Vermont State Police was notified of a sexual assault that occurred in the Town of Readsboro. Following an investigation, Troopers discovered that Aiden Bimmler (24) had sexually assaulted and caused bodily harm to a domestic partner. Bimmler was issued a criminal citation to appear in the Vermont Superior Court – Bennington Criminal Division on October 7th, 2026, at 1230 hours.

 

COURT ACTION: YES

COURT DATE/TIME: 10/07/2026 | 0830 Hours           

COURT: Vermont Superior Court – Bennington Criminal Division

LODGED - LOCATION: Marble Valley Regional Correctional Facility (MVRCF)

BAIL: HELD WITHOUT BAIL

MUG SHOT: YES

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

--

Trooper Michael Arel

Vermont State Police

“B” Troop – Shaftsbury

96 Airport Road

Shaftsbury, VT 05262

(802) 442-5421

Vermont State Police release name of trooper who died after suffering ...

 

 

Uploaded Image

St. Johnsbury Barracks / DUI #2

VSP News Release-Incident

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26A4010312

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME:  Trooper Nally                           

STATION: St. Johnsbury                     

CONTACT#: 802-748-3111

 

DATE/TIME: 10/06/26 @ 2216 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Hastings Hill, St. Johnsbury

VIOLATION: DUI #2

 

ACCUSED: Cynthia Reffi                                              

AGE: 64

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Waterford, VT

 

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: On the above date and time Troopers from the Vermont State Police initiated a traffic stop after observing a vehicle driving without headlights on. The operator was identified as Reffi. Investigation revealed Reffi had operated under the influence. She was taken into custody and transported to the Vermont State Police Barracks for processing. Reffi was later released on a citation.

 

 

COURT ACTION: YES

COURT DATE/TIME: 10/26/26 @ 0830 hours          

COURT: Caledonia

LODGED - LOCATION: N/A  

BAIL: N/A

MUG SHOT: INCLUDED

 

 

 

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

 

Trooper William Nally

Vermont State Police – St. Johnsbury

1068 US-5 # 1

St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819

802-748-3111

 

Uploaded Image

October 6, 2026

Westminster Barracks / Fatal Crash Update

UPDATE: On October 5th, 2026, Vermont State Police received an update from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) advising that the operator of vehicle #1, Michael Hannum of Ware, MA died from his injuries sustained from the crash. 

 

The incident is under further investigation. Anyone with information regarding the crash is asked to call the Westminster Barracks at (802) 722-4600, option 3.

 

 

 

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH

 

CASE#: 26B1008627                      

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Victor Elias

STATION: Westminster        

CONTACT#: (802) 722-4600

 

DATE/TIME: September 30th, 2026, at 1614 hours

STREET: Vermont Route 9

TOWN: Marlboro, Windham County, Vermont

LANDMARK AND/OR CROSS STREETS: Staver Road

INTERSTATE MILE MARKER: N/A

WEATHER: Clear / Sunny

ROAD CONDITIONS: Clear

 

 

VEHICLE #1

OPERATOR: Michael Hannum

AGE: 65

SEAT BELT? Yes

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Ware, MA

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 2026

VEHICLE MAKE: JEEP

VEHICLE MODEL: Wrangler

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #1: Totaled

INJURIES: Fatal

HOSPITAL: Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC)

 

 

VEHICLE #2

OPERATOR: David Shade

AGE:  71

SEAT BELT? YES

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Cogan Station, PA

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 2020

VEHICLE MAKE: GMC

VEHICLE MODEL: Sierra

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #2: Minor rear end damage

INJURIES: N/A

HOSPITAL: N/A

 

 

VEHICLE #3

OPERATOR: Russell B. Hawkins

AGE: 67

SEAT BELT? YES

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE:  Chesterfield, VA

 

VEHICLE YEAR: 2017

VEHICLE MAKE: Chevrolet

VEHICLE MODEL: Traverse

DAMAGE TO VEHICLE #2: Totaled

INJURIES: Minor

HOSPITAL: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital (BMH)

 

 

SUMMARY OF CRASH:

 

On September 30th, 2026, at 1614 hours, Vermont State Police, Marlboro Fire Department, Dartmouth Hitchcock Advanced Response Team (DHART), and Rescue Inc. responded to a reported three motor vehicle collision with injuries located on Vermont Route 9 near the intersection of Staver Rd. in Town of Marlboro, Windham County, Vermont. Investigation revealed that vehicle 1 was traveling westbound on VT Route 9 near Staver Road. Vehicle 1 then crossed the center line, entered the eastbound lane of VT Route 9, and struck vehicles 2 and 3, who were traveling eastbound. Operator 1 sustained serious bodily injures and was airlifted to DHMC via DHART. Operator 2 did not sustain any injuries. Operator 3 sustained minor injuries and was transported to BMH. This crash is currently under investigation. Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to call the Westminster Barracks at 802-722-4600, option 3.

 

 

Trooper Victor Elias

Vermont State Police 

Westminster Barracks

1330 Westminster Heights Rd. 

Putney, Vermont 05346

(802) 722-4600

 

New Haven Barracks / Aggravated Domestic Assault

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

NEWS RELEASE

       

CASE#: 26B5004294

RANK/TROOPER FULL NAME: Trooper Jonathon Raymond

STATION: VSP New Haven                    

CONTACT#: 802-388-4919

 

DATE/TIME: 10/05/2026 at approximately 2018 hours

INCIDENT LOCATION: Chickadee Ave, Salisbury, VT

VIOLATION: Aggravated Domestic Assault

 

ACCUSED: Matthew Gosselin                                        

AGE: 35

CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: Salisbury, VT

 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT: At the above date and time, the Vermont State Police – New Haven Barracks responded to a reported family fight in Salisbury, VT. Investigation revealed Gosselin had inflicted pain on a family member.  Gosselin was placed under arrest for Domestic Assault and transported to the New Haven Barracks for processing. Gosselin was issued a citation to appear in Addison County Superior Court to answer to the above charge and lodged.

 

COURT ACTION: Yes

COURT DATE/TIME: 10/06/2026, 1230 hours.            

COURT: Addison County Criminal Court

LODGED - LOCATION: Marble Valley Correctional Facility

BAIL: $1000

MUG SHOT: Included

 

*Please note:  court date and time are subject to change at the discretion of

the court. Please call the criminal court clerk to confirm arraignment time.

 

 

Uploaded Image