Authorities have released new details regarding the police shooting that occurred on Friday night in Rochester, New Hampshire, resulting in the death of 36-year-old Joseph Russell. The information was provided by the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office in an update early Saturday morning.

According to the report, officers had pursued Russell, who was being sought since Thursday in connection with multiple car thefts, into a wooded area off Gooseberry Circle. Rochester police had intercepted him on Route 16, where he abandoned the vehicle he was driving and fled into the residences on Gooseberry Circle.

Upon confrontation, Russell was instructed to surrender, but he attempted to flee again. A state police K-9 unit was deployed, immobilizing him on the ground. At this point, officers allegedly noticed Russell pulling out a gun, prompting two officers to open fire in self-defense.

Following protocol for police shootings, the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office initiated an investigation into the incident. An autopsy on Joseph Russell is scheduled to be conducted on Saturday to determine the exact cause of death.

The tragic event has raised important questions regarding the circumstances leading to the use of lethal force by law enforcement officers. As the investigation progresses, authorities will be working to provide clear answers and transparency for the public.

The community of Rochester, New Hampshire, remains deeply affected by this unfortunate incident, and it is hoped that the investigation will shed light on the sequence of events and help ensure the fair and just handling of the case.

Authorities urge anyone with relevant information regarding the series of car thefts or the shooting incident to come forward and assist law enforcement in their ongoing investigation.