By Tiffany Williams –
ASHLAND, N.H. — An officer-involved shooting during a traffic stop has left one man dead and a police officer wounded, triggering a multi-agency investigation now underway.
According to Attorney General John M. Formella, members of the Attorney General’s Office and the New Hampshire State Police Major Crime Unit responded Monday night to the scene on Main Street following reports of gunfire during a motor vehicle stop conducted by the Ashland Police Department.
Authorities say the situation escalated rapidly. During the stop, an adult male produced a firearm and engaged officers in an exchange of gunfire. Police say the man shot one officer, striking and wounding him.
During that same exchange, officers returned fire, and the adult male was shot. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The wounded officer is currently being treated at an area hospital for a gunshot injury. Officials say no other law enforcement officers or private citizens were physically injured.
Investigators say there is no known threat to the public at this time.
As the investigation moves forward, officials are withholding the names of the officers involved pending formal interviews. The identity of the deceased man will be released after next of kin are notified and an autopsy is completed by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Authorities are also working to determine whether any portion of the incident was captured on police body cameras or cruiser camera footage.
Officials say additional details are expected following the autopsy, as investigators continue to examine the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting.