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Middletown shooting update: Shelter-in-place ordered in parts of Connecticut city; first details on suspect
A shooting in Middletown, Connecticut prompted a shelter in place for East Street, Westlake Drive, Smith Street, Country Club Road, and Atkins Street.
A shooting took place in Middletown, Connecticut on Tuesday. Police said that initial investigations showed it to be an isolated incident and said the connected parties were known to each other.
“The Middletown Police Department is currently investigating a shooting incident in the city. At this time, investigators believe this to be an isolated incident and that the involved parties are known to one another. No injuries have been reported,” the update on Facebook read.
They added that the suspect was on foot and believed to be in the area. Authorities noted that out of an ‘abundance of caution’ a shelter-in-place was issued for East Street, Westlake Drive, Smith Street, Country Club Road, and Atkins Street.
“Residents in the affected area are urged to remain indoors, lock doors and windows, and immediately report any suspicious activity by calling 911. Middletown PD , Cromwell PD, and CSP remain actively searching the area and additional updates will be provided as information becomes available. Please avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to safely conduct their investigation,” the statement further said. Subsequently, several local media outlets carried the news of the shooting as well.
Middletown shooting: Suspect details
Authorities released details of the suspect in the Middletown shooting as well. Cops said it was a ‘white male with long hair and a beard’. The suspect was last seen in all black clothing.
The news of the shooting in Middletown sparked worry among many. On X one page noted “Lockdown Issued as Police Search for Armed Suspect in Middletown.” Another added “Authorities in Middletown, Connecticut are responding to reports of gunfire on Tuesday, prompting a significant law enforcement presence and widespread public concern.”
One page claimed the incident went down at Middletown Ridge Apartment Complex. “Police activity, reports of multiple shots fired. Middletown Ridge Apartment Complex. Westlake Drive is closed in the area, Residents being requested to shelter in place. EMS being staged at the Westfield firehouse on East Street,” they wrote. The official Connecticut state government page also noted “Middletown, Shelter in Place, Middletown Police is asking residents to shelter in place until further notice due to police activity.”
Several people reacted to the news of the shooting. “Saw a cromwell cop with a gun standing on the bridge looking down at the bike trail on east street by west lake,” one wrote. Another added “There was four gunshots around 4:40 pm that I heard, police presence is heavy.”
Connecticut is reportedly among the US states with strictest gun control measures. The state needs permits for all firearm purchases and universal background checks. It also has a strict assault weapons ban.
