Scott Mason Accused of Shooting and Injuring St. Johnsbury Police Officer, Captain Jason Gray – Obituary and Death: Vermont State Police Intensify Search for Armed Suspect in Violent Domestic Violence Encounter
ST. JOHNSBURY, VT – A desperate search continues in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, as authorities focus on locating Scott Mason, a 38-year-old man accused of shooting and injuring Captain Jason Gray, a respected member of the St. Johnsbury Police Department. The violent confrontation, which occurred on Friday afternoon, left Captain Gray wounded and has prompted Vermont State Police to issue a manhunt for Mason, who is considered armed and extremely dangerous.
The tragedy unfolded at approximately 4:30 p.m. when Captain Gray, a seasoned law enforcement officer, responded to a reported domestic violence incident at Mason’s residence on Portland Street in St. Johnsbury. As Gray approached the scene, the situation rapidly escalated, leading to a violent confrontation between the officer and the suspect. The details surrounding the altercation are still under investigation, but sources confirm that during the encounter, Captain Gray was shot.
Following the shooting, Captain Gray was airlifted from the scene and transported to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Medical professionals reported that while Gray’s condition was stable at the time of arrival, he remained under intense medical care. Authorities have assured the public that the 45-year-old officer is receiving treatment and that his condition is being closely monitored. However, the extent of his injuries remains a matter of concern for his family, colleagues, and the community he has served for many years.
“We’re not going to let up our search until we find Mr. Mason,” stated Major Shawn Loan, Commander of the Vermont State Police Criminal Division. “This is a serious situation, and we urge the public to stay vigilant and immediately contact authorities if they have any information about Mason’s whereabouts. He should be considered armed and dangerous.”
The search for Mason has intensified in the days following the shooting, with law enforcement agencies utilizing all available resources to locate the suspect. According to police reports, Mason is described as a 5’11” tall, 220-pound man with brown hair and hazel eyes. He was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt and pants. Mason was residing in a second-floor apartment at 261 Portland Street in St. Johnsbury, the location where the incident initially began. The manhunt has led authorities to comb through various areas in and around St. Johnsbury, working to piece together any potential leads that could aid in his capture.
Mason’s criminal background and possible motivations remain unclear, as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the domestic violence call that led to the confrontation. As investigators work to reconstruct the chain of events that transpired, they are urging anyone with information about Mason’s whereabouts or background to come forward. Officials have issued a strong warning to the public not to approach the suspect, as his violent actions and status as an armed individual make him a significant threat to public safety.
Vermont State Police, alongside the St. Johnsbury Police Department, are coordinating efforts to ensure that Mason is brought to justice swiftly. They have also received assistance from other law enforcement agencies in the region, including the FBI and U.S. Marshals. The collaborative nature of the investigation underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the situation.
At the center of this unfolding crisis is Captain Jason Gray, who has been described by his peers as a dedicated and committed law enforcement officer. Gray has been with the St. Johnsbury Police Department for many years, earning a reputation for his professionalism and unwavering commitment to the safety of his community. His colleagues have expressed their shock and concern over the incident, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and their collective desire for his swift recovery.
Captain Gray’s injuries, while stable at present, have cast a somber shadow over the town of St. Johnsbury. Law enforcement officers, first responders, and residents alike are anxiously awaiting updates on his condition and hoping for the best possible outcome for their beloved officer.
The incident has also raised questions about the safety of law enforcement officers responding to domestic violence situations. Domestic violence calls are often unpredictable and dangerous, and this case serves as a stark reminder of the risks officers face when attempting to de-escalate volatile situations. Despite the potential danger, law enforcement officers continue to risk their lives to protect the public and uphold the law, underscoring their bravery and commitment to their duty.
Community members have expressed their support for Captain Gray, with many offering prayers and well-wishes for his recovery. A local vigil has been planned for the coming days, where residents can gather to show their solidarity with the officer and his family during this difficult time. The support from the community highlights the deep bond between law enforcement and the people they serve, particularly in a small town like St. Johnsbury, where individuals like Captain Gray are known and respected.
As the search for Scott Mason continues, the Vermont State Police have reiterated their warning for the public to avoid approaching the suspect and to immediately contact authorities if they have any information. In addition to the ongoing search, investigators are also exploring potential leads regarding Mason’s past and any possible connections to the domestic violence report that preceded the shooting.
Authorities have cautioned that Mason should be considered extremely dangerous and should not be approached under any circumstances. The search for Mason remains a high priority for law enforcement, with resources being allocated to ensure his capture. Vermont State Police have promised that no stone will be left unturned in their effort to bring Mason into custody.
The tragic event has also sparked discussions about the safety of police officers and the challenges they face in responding to calls related to domestic violence. Experts have pointed out that these types of calls are among the most dangerous for law enforcement officers, as they often involve individuals who may be armed, intoxicated, or experiencing heightened emotional distress. Officers responding to such calls are trained to be cautious and prepared for the worst, but situations like the one involving Captain Gray demonstrate just how quickly circumstances can spiral out of control.
The community’s concern for Captain Gray’s well-being is palpable, and the desire to see Mason apprehended quickly has united law enforcement officials and residents in a shared mission. As Vermont State Police continue their search efforts, they are urging the public to remain alert and to report any sightings or information about Mason’s whereabouts.
The shooting of Captain Gray has also served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers every day. In a world where the risks of the job are ever-present, officers like Gray continue to put their lives on the line to protect others. Their bravery and dedication to the community often go unrecognized, but in the wake of such a tragedy, the appreciation for their service is clear.
As the search for Scott Mason presses on, Vermont State Police remain resolute in their commitment to apprehending the suspect and bringing him to justice. Law enforcement officials have vowed to work tirelessly until Mason is caught, ensuring that he faces the consequences of his actions. The ongoing investigation into the shooting is expected to continue for some time, as authorities seek to uncover all the details surrounding the incident.
Captain Jason Gray, meanwhile, continues to receive medical care at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, with hopes for his full recovery. His colleagues and the community are standing by him, offering their support and waiting for the day when he can return to the force and continue his work as a dedicated public servant.
In the days ahead, the search for Scott Mason will undoubtedly intensify, as law enforcement agencies continue their pursuit of the armed and dangerous suspect. The people of St. Johnsbury, and indeed all of Vermont, remain hopeful that Mason will be located and arrested soon, and that justice will be served in the aftermath of this violent and shocking incident.
