MONTPELIER –– An investigation is underway following a school bus incident where a gunshot was fired at the vehicle’s windshield, according to the Montpelier Police Department. The incident occurred at around 3:24 p.m. on Thursday, October 26.
There was a notable delay in the police department being notified about the incident. Prior to the arrival of law enforcement, the bus service provider, First Student, had already evacuated the students, switched buses, and returned to their headquarters. No injuries were reported.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers identified a single gunshot through the driver’s side window which then hit the windshield.
Three individuals from a nearby homeless encampment located on private property at 5 Home Farm Way were detained and interviewed.
While no arrests were made at the time, these individuals had several weapons in their possession or within close proximity when they were approached by the police.
The Montpelier Police Department seized seven firearms during the initial interaction with the individuals. Following a search warrant for a camper on the encampment site, an additional firearm was also confiscated.
In total, eight firearms were seized during the preliminary stages of the investigation. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is assisting the Montpelier Police Department in the ongoing investigation.
The Montpelier Police Department is also working closely with U32 staff, Vermont State Police, Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Berlin Police Department to further the investigation. Officers will be posted at the railroad crossing at school closing time.
The investigation is still ongoing and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Montpelier Police Department at 802-223-3445.
