Above, the Franklin Police Department shared a photo on social media of their former chief, Bradley Haas, who tragically lost his life while working as a security officer on Friday. Chief Haas devoted 26 years to the City and the department, eventually rising to the position of chief. He retired in 2008, but continued to serve the New Hampshire community as a security officer at the NH State Hospital. In honor of his memory, the FPD will fly their flags at half-staff and wear mourning bands on their badges.

The scene outside the New Hampshire Hospital on Clinton Street on Saturday morning. Photo by Paula Tracy.

UPDATED Saturday at 3:10 p.m. to reveal that John Madore was previously a patient at the New Hampshire Hospital.

By PAULA TRACY, InDepthNH.org

Tragic Shooting at New Hampshire State Hospital Leaves Officer Dead

CONCORD – State officials have confirmed that John Madore, a 33-year-old transient who had been living in the Seacoast area and Concord, was shot and killed by state police after he fatally wounded an unarmed security officer at the state’s secured psychiatric hospital on Friday afternoon.

A running U-Haul van, believed to be connected to Madore, was discovered in the hospital’s parking area. Inside the van, authorities found a cache of weapons, including an AR-style rifle, a tactical vest, and several rounds of ammunition.

The motive behind the attack remains unknown, according to Attorney General John Formella. The homicide investigation is just beginning, and it has been revealed that Madore was previously a patient at the New Hampshire Hospital, as indicated by court records.

Formella disclosed that Madore used a 9mm pistol to fatally shoot Bradley Haas, the security officer who tragically lost his life. Haas, a former Franklin Police Chief and a resident of the community, was described as a dedicated public servant by his family.

Court records indicate that Madore had a history with the psychiatric hospital, stemming from an arrest in Strafford in January 2016. At the time, Madore was charged with simple assault, second-degree assault, and reckless conduct. However, these charges were later dismissed, and it became apparent during court hearings and sealed orders that Madore’s competency to stand trial was a significant concern.

The duration of Madore’s stay in the psychiatric hospital remains unclear, but he was transported multiple times from the hospital to court for competency hearings. It is also uncertain if Madore had been a patient more recently. The Strafford case was officially closed on October 19, 2017.

State Officials and Governor Pay Tribute to Fallen Hero

Governor Chris Sununu has hailed Bradley Haas as a “hero” and commended the unidentified state trooper who shot Madore, stating that their actions undoubtedly saved lives.

During the shooting, there were other individuals present in the hospital’s lobby who managed to escape unharmed. Video footage of the encounter has been obtained and will be crucial in the ongoing investigation.

Attorney General Formella emphasized that despite this tragic incident, New Hampshire remains one of the safest states in the country. He assured the public that law enforcement agencies are working collaboratively and that there is no ongoing threat related to the incident.

Formella refrained from identifying the State Trooper involved in the shooting, as it is customary to do so after the trooper has been interviewed.

Condolences and Support for Hospital Staff

Lori Weaver, the commissioner of the state Department of Health and Human Services, expressed her condolences and described the hospital staff’s response as courageous and commendable. She praised their ability to maintain calm during an unspeakable situation.

At a press briefing held at the state’s incident command center, Attorney General Formella extended condolences to Haas’s family. He highlighted Haas’s 28-year career with the Franklin Police, where he eventually became the chief. Prior to that, Haas also served in the Armed Services.

Formella acknowledged that Haas was already a hero due to his dedicated service and that he tragically lost his life while protecting patients at the New Hampshire State Hospital.

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with autopsies being conducted by the chief medical examiner’s office. State Police Col. Mark Hall has requested that anyone with information related to the incident contact the authorities.

The State Police bomb squad was able to safely process the U-Haul van, confirming that it did not pose a public safety threat. Col. Hall expressed his pride in the state police officer involved in the incident and offered condolences to all affected by the tragedy. He emphasized that while it was a devastating event, the situation was contained swiftly, preventing further harm.

Focus on Healing and Reopening

Commissioner Weaver acknowledged that the New Hampshire State Hospital had experienced an unspeakable tragedy. She praised both the large and small acts of heroism displayed during the incident, from the quick and decisive actions of responders to the support from various departments providing meals to the staff.

Efforts are being made to reopen visitation and allow patients to communicate with their families by phone. Concerned individuals can contact the hospital for patient-related inquiries, while those in emotional crisis are encouraged to call 9-8-8.

Weaver also requested that the privacy of the hospital staff be respected as they enter and exit the facility.

Attorney General Formella clarified that Haas, as an unarmed security officer, did not carry a weapon, which is typical for that role.