Suspect Killed In Bridgeport Police Shooting; Investigation Underway

BRIDGEPORT, CT — A suspect in a weapons and narcotics investigation that began in Bridgeport was killed by Bridgeport police in a shooting after a chase into Ansonia on Sunday.

Authorities have not released the identity of the suspect, but no other injuries were reported in the shooting, which occurred in the 200 block of Division Street in Ansonia.

The incident began just after 5 p.m. as Bridgeport police officers were conducting the criminal investigation in the Oak Street area.

"As a result of that investigation, Officers attempted a felony motor vehicle stop at approximately 5:10 pm," wrote Bridgeport Police Capt. Kevin Gilleran in a statement. "The operator of the suspect vehicle subsequently fled from officers traveling northbound on Route 8. The vehicle travelled through several municipalities and ultimately came to a stop within the 200 block of Division Street in Ansonia, CT, where an officer-involved shooting occurred. The suspect was transported to Griffin Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased."

The identities of the police officers involved were not disclosed, but an investigation is underway by the Office of Inspector General, the Connecticut State Police Central District Major Crime Squad, and the Ansonia/Milford Judicial District State’s Attorney’s Office, according to Gilleran.

All instances of the use of deadly force by police are thoroughly investigated, as mandated by the Connecticut Police Accountability Act.

"Bridgeport Police Chief Roderick Porter Sr. has the utmost confidence that the Office of the Inspector General will ensure a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation," department officials said in a release. "Regardless of the circumstances, loss of life is tragic. Our sincerest condolences go out to the family of the deceased."

The Bridgeport police officers involved in the incident will be assigned out of the Chief’s Office on modified duty until a determination has been made by the Office of the Inspector General.

"We support our Bridgeport police officers as they continue to partner with the community by providing quality police services and creating a safe environment through fair and impartial enforcement of the law," Gilleran said.

Anyone with information regarding the case and the investigation should contact the Office of the Inspector General at 203-806-1595.