In a dramatic turn of events, a man was shot and killed by New Hampshire State Police during a foot chase after he was captured by a police dog and pulled out a weapon. The incident occurred on Friday evening in Rochester, New Hampshire, as law enforcement officers were assisting the local police department in their search for Joseph Russell, 36.

According to Attorney General John Formella, Rochester police were on the lookout for Russell in connection with several vehicle thefts when they spotted him driving in the city, approximately 21 miles northwest of Portsmouth. As the police intercepted Russell on Route 16, he abandoned his vehicle and attempted to flee on foot.

During the pursuit, officers quickly discovered that Russell was armed with a firearm. In a residential area, both Rochester officers and state troopers caught sight of Russell and initiated the chase, repeatedly ordering him to stop. As the tension escalated, a trooper released a police dog, causing Russell to be brought to the ground.

However, the situation took a deadly turn when officers witnessed Russell draw his gun. In response, two state troopers discharged their weapons, fatally shooting him. The man, later identified as Joseph Russell, died at the scene. Thankfully, none of the officers or any nearby individuals were injured during this incident.

The identities of the state troopers involved in the shooting have not been made public as of yet. The New Hampshire Department of Justice and the State Police Major Crimes Unit are currently conducting an investigation into the shooting to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

To gain a clearer understanding of the incident, an autopsy for Joseph Russell has been scheduled for Saturday, according to Attorney General Formella. As details continue to emerge, the local community and law enforcement officials are left grappling with the aftermath of this incident, seeking answers and closure.

The shooting has raised concerns over public safety and the use of force by law enforcement officers. The New Hampshire State Police and the Rochester Police Department will likely face pressure to provide transparency and accountability in their handling of the situation.

As the investigation unfolds, the community waits for further updates regarding the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting of Joseph Russell.