On December 13, 2024, the St. Johnsbury Police Department encountered a harrowing incident as Police Captain Jason Gray was shot on Portland Street. What began as just another day quickly turned chaotic when responding officers found Gray wounded at the scene.
Gray was rushed to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center for treatment, where he was reported to be stable. The search for the shooter, identified as 38-year-old Scott Mason, escalated dramatically, culminating in a three-day manhunt as authorities sought to locate him.
Mason, who fled the scene immediately after the shooting, was finally apprehended on December 15, facing serious charges including attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer resulting in serious bodily injury. This incident not only captured national attention but also underscored the risks law enforcement officers face daily.
On January 17, 2025, Vermont State Police arrested five individuals believed to have assisted Mason during his flight from justice. The suspects include Patrice Mason, Scott Mason's mother, who faces charges of accessory aiding the commission of felony and negligent storage of firearms resulting in serious bodily injury. Patrice is currently jailed on $10,000 bail at the Northeast Correctional Complex.
Also arrested were Jonathan Russell, 45, and his partner Tisa Russell, both charged as accessories after the fact. Jonathan was jailed on $1,000 bail, whereas Tisa was released on citation. William Drew and Amber Labrecque, both also charged as accessories after the fact, were released on citation as well.
All suspects except Labrecque are slated for arraignment at 12:30 p.m. on January 21 at the Criminal Division of Vermont Superior Court. Labrecque is scheduled to stand before the court on February 10. The arraignments will shed light on the role each suspect played during this chaotic series of events.
Vermont State Police are adamant about the continuing nature of their investigation, with officials indicating it remains open and active. Authorities hinted at the possibility of additional arrests, showing their commitment to fully unraveling the circumstances surrounding Captain Gray’s shooting and the subsequent assistance provided to the suspect.
"The investigation remains open and active, and police said...an additional arrest is expected," noted Vermont State Police, highlighting their dedication to holding all involved accountable.
The St. Johnsbury community has rallied around Captain Gray and his family during this difficult time. The shooting has sparked conversations about supporting local law enforcement and ensuring their safety as they work tirelessly to protect residents. Many local officials have echoed these sentiments, calling for increased vigilance and community support.
This incident is serving as both a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement faces behind the badge and the community's role in assisting them. With tight-knit neighbors united, residents of St. Johnsbury are taking steps to support their police department, reaffirming their commitment to cooperation as the investigation continues.
Although the pain from the shooting may linger, Captain Gray’s resilience and the community’s response signal hope moving forward. Law enforcement officers, bolstered by community support and cooperation, remain steadfast in their mission to serve and protect, emphasizing the importance of unity against crime.