CONCORD, N.H. - A tragic shooting incident at the New Hampshire State Hospital in Concord has resulted in the death of a security officer, while the suspect has been identified as 33-year-old John Madore. The Attorney General's office has confirmed the discovery of an AR-style rifle in a truck parked in the hospital's lot, raising concerns about the motive behind the incident.

Attorney General John Formella revealed that Madore, who was homeless, had recently been staying at a hotel on the Seacoast and then relocated to Concord. The shooting unfolded on Friday, leaving the community shaken.

In the aftermath of the incident, law enforcement officials found a U-Haul truck idling within the hospital's parking area. According to State Police Col. Mark Hall, the bomb squad was dispatched to inspect the truck, but it was determined not to pose a threat to public safety. However, inside the truck, authorities discovered an AR-style rifle, a tactical vest, and multiple rounds of ammunition. The connection between these items and Madore has not been confirmed by Formella.

The security officer killed during the shooting has been identified as 63-year-old Bradley Haas, a respected veteran of the Franklin Police Department and former chief. Haas's swift response to the incident and subsequent sacrifice has been commended by officials. A state trooper, whose identity will remain undisclosed until the conclusion of the investigation, bravely confronted Madore and fatally shot him.

The exact nature of the altercation that led to the shooting remains unclear. Formella did not disclose whether the individuals present in the lobby during the incident were patients, staff, or visitors. The community has been left in shock by the loss of Haas, who retired in 2008 but remained dedicated to serving and protecting as a security officer at the New Hampshire State Hospital.

The Franklin Police Department expressed its condolences on Facebook, stating, "Chief Haas dedicated 26 years to the city and department, culminating in his tenure as chief. He retired in 2008. He continued to dedicate his time to the NH community by service as a security officer and protecting those at the NH State Hospital."

Governor Chris Sununu expressed gratitude to the heroic individuals who responded swiftly to the shooting, preventing the incident from becoming even more devastating. "Make no mistake, if not for the heroics and sacrifice of Bradley Haas, the bravery of the New Hampshire Hospital staff, the unflinching response of New Hampshire State Police, this tragedy could have been much, much worse," Governor Sununu said.

Anyone with information regarding the shooting or John Madore is urged to contact the New Hampshire State Police Major Crime Unit at 603-628-8477. The investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing, and authorities remain committed to determining the motives behind the attack and ensuring justice for the victim and their loved ones.