Fairfield Police Chief Issues Statement On Armed Robbery/Home Invasion

FAIRFIELD, CT — While the investigation into Thursday morning's armed robbery and home invasion in Fairfield is continuing, Police Chief Michael Paris released new details about the incident, and thanked his officers for apprehending multiple suspects in the case.

The identities of the suspects have not yet been released, but Paris said no injuries were reported in the incident, which began at about 2:30 a.m. in the Candlewood Road area of Fairfield.

"The victims were not harmed, no officers were injured, and at no point was there a specific threat directed toward any school or the general public," Paris said in a statement.

Two schools, McKinley Elementary School and Fairfield Warde High School, were closed Thursday, and residents were instructed to shelter in place, as the search for suspects played out in the area.

"Out of an abundance of caution, and in coordination with School and Town officials, the decision was made to close McKinley Elementary School and Fairfield Warde High School based on their direct proximity to the incident and their respective start times," said Lt. Michael Stahl, the department's School Safety Division Supervisor. "We recognize that other schools are located nearby, however, based on proximity, timing, and all of the information available at the time, we were confident that this approach was appropriate and prudent."

Paris said that "four suspects or persons of interest" were apprehended early Thursday.

"This investigation involved extensive collaboration between Patrol Officers, the Investigative Services Division, the State’s Attorney’s Office, Fairfield Public Schools leadership, Town officials, and our local, state, and federal partners," Paris said.

The chief also had a message for any would-be criminals seeking to prey on Fairfield.

"Let me be absolutely clear. If you come into the Town of Fairfield with the intent to commit a crime, you should fully expect that the Fairfield Police Department will find you, and we will arrest you," Paris said. "Our officers are highly trained, professional, and relentless when it comes to protecting this community. We will not tolerate individuals who believe they can victimize our residents or threaten the safety of our neighborhoods."

Paris added, "I could not be prouder of the men and women of the Fairfield Police Department. Their response to this incident reflects the very best of policing. Every day, they represent the Town of Fairfield with integrity and dedication, and this incident is yet another example of their exceptional work."

Fairfield police expect to release additional information about the case in the future when appropriate.

"The department thanks the community for its cooperation, patience, and continued trust."