ST. JOHNSBURY — Vermont State Police are intensifying their search for 38-year-old Scott Mason, a St. Johnsbury resident and suspect in the shooting of a local police officer.
The incident took place on Friday afternoon, and the injured officer is currently receiving medical treatment at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.
The VSP, alongside various law enforcement agencies, has spread the word across New England to be vigilant for Mason, who should be considered armed and dangerous.
A Blue Alert has been issued due to the serious nature of the situation, with the officer being shot in the line of duty and the suspect still at large.
Authorities are advising the public to take extra precautions, such as locking doors and staying alert.
They urge anyone who spots Mason to avoid confrontation and instead call 911 immediately.
Mason, who has an outstanding arrest warrant unrelated to the shooting for failure to appear on 26 counts of forgery, is potentially facing extradition across New England and New York.
The warrant holds a $5,000 bail.
While the name of the wounded officer has not been disclosed, his condition was stable as of Friday night.
Roads that were initially closed after the incident have now been reopened, but law enforcement presence in the area will persist as the investigation continues.
The VSP expresses gratitude for the community’s support and commits to providing regular updates as the case evolves.
Vermont State Police earlier identified Mason as a 5-foot-11-inch tall man, around 220 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes.
He was involved in a domestic-violence incident at his residence prior to the shooting of the officer.
The VSP has released an additional photograph of Mason to aid in his identification.
Residents with information that could lead to Mason’s capture can submit anonymous tips by texting VTIPS to 274637 (CRIMES), calling 844-84-VTIPS, or visiting the provided online tip site.
