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.
Crime
Armed Man with Reported Mental Health Concerns Arrested inside U.S. Capitol
Police officer suspended after failing to stop an armed man entering the U.S. Capitol.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, January 21, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) responded to a security alert regarding a man reportedly experiencing mental health issues and suicidal thoughts, who was believed to be armed and in the vicinity of the Capitol.
At approximately 1:15 p.m., USCP officers located the suspect’s vehicle on First Street near East Capitol Street, NE.
A subsequent search of the area determined that the individual had recently entered the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) and participated in a Capitol tour.
At around 2:15 p.m., officers observed the man exiting the Library of Congress following the tour and walking toward his vehicle.
He was intercepted, searched, and taken into custody. A concealed 9mm handgun was discovered in his waistband during the search.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old James A. Faber of Massachusetts, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Unlawful Activities
- Carrying a Pistol Without a License
- Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of Ammunition
- Resisting Arrest
The case is currently under review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Following a review of security footage, it was determined that Faber entered the Capitol Visitor Center through the south checkpoint. Although the magnetometer alarm was triggered, an officer conducted a secondary hand search and subsequently allowed him entry into the building.
As a result of this lapse, the officer involved has been placed on administrative suspension pending an internal investigation by the USCP’s Office of Professional Responsibility to assess their performance in handling the security screening.
Authorities have stated that, at this time, there is no indication that Faber intended to harm members of Congress or any individuals within the Capitol complex.
In response to the incident, the USCP has ordered a comprehensive review of security protocols and mandated refresher training for all personnel involved in visitor screening to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The United States Capitol Police demands the highest standards in security screening procedures to ensure the safety of all individuals within the Capitol complex. A thorough review is already underway to reinforce our protocols and training,” the agency stated.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported in connection with this incident.