Crime
St. Johnsbury police Captain Jason Gray shot in the line of duty, suspect Scott Mason at large
ST. JOHNSBURY, VT – Vermont State Police are actively searching for a man accused of shooting and injuring a St. Johnsbury police officer who responded to a reported domestic violence incident on Friday afternoon.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Scott Mason, 38, who is considered armed and dangerous.
Members of the public are strongly advised not to approach Mason but to call 911 immediately if they see him or have any information on his whereabouts.
The victim, Captain Jason Gray of the St. Johnsbury Police Department, was shot during the encounter.
According to sources, Gray is in stable condition but remains under treatment at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, after being airlifted for care.
“We’re not going to let up our search until we find Mr. Mason,” said Major Shawn Loan, Commander of the Vermont State Police Criminal Division. “We urge the public to assist by reporting any sightings or information. If you see him, please call 911.”
Mason is described as:
- Height: 5’11”
- Weight: Approximately 220 pounds
- Hair: Brown
- Eyes: Hazel
- Last Seen Wearing: Gray sweatshirt and pants
- Residence: A second-floor apartment at 261 Portland Street, St. Johnsbury
The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. Friday when Officer Gray responded to Mason’s residence following a domestic violence report. The circumstances surrounding the shooting are under investigation.
Law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to locate Mason, deploying significant resources to ensure public safety. The search remains active and ongoing.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately. For updates on this developing situation, follow official Vermont State Police communications.
On December 13, 2024, at approximately 10:39 a.m., the DeSoto Police Department received a 911 hang-up call from a residence in the 1000 block of Hunter’s Creek Drive.
Upon reestablishing contact, the caller, identified as 26-year-old Arthur Lee Armstrong, Jr., informed dispatchers that he was armed with “several” weapons and intended to harm police officers.
A second caller later confirmed that Armstrong was at the residence with multiple other occupants and armed with a knife.
DeSoto patrol officers promptly responded to the scene.
Upon their arrival, Armstrong confronted them in the front yard, wielding a knife in each hand.
Ignoring repeated commands to stop and drop his weapons, Armstrong advanced aggressively toward the officers.
As Armstrong continued closing the distance, one officer discharged a single round from a patrol rifle, striking Armstrong in the chest.
Officers quickly disarmed Armstrong and initiated life-saving measures on the scene. Armstrong was then transported to Central Methodist Hospital by DeSoto EMS, where he was pronounced deceased upon arrival.
The DeSoto Police Department requested that the Grand Prairie Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit conduct an independent investigation into the incident.
Additionally, the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office Public Integrity Unit dispatched an investigator to provide an independent review of the matter.
In accordance with department policy, the officer who discharged the weapon has been placed on paid administrative leave while these investigations are underway.
The DeSoto Police Department recognizes the significant impact this incident has on the community, as well as the individuals and families involved. A comprehensive investigation is being conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the event, and the department is committed to maintaining transparency throughout the process.
To provide further details, a press conference is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 16, 2024, at the DeSoto Police Department headquarters. Community members and media are encouraged to attend for updates on the investigation.