In a tragic turn of events, a man, his wife, and her 13-year-old son were found shot to death in their Vermont home, leaving the tight-knit community of Pawlet in shock. Vermont State Police were alerted to a "suspicious person" early Sunday, leading them to the grisly discovery at the family's residence in Pawlet. The victims have been identified as Brian Crossman Sr., 46, Erica Crossman, 41, and Colin Taft, 13.

According to the Vermont Chief Medical Examiner's Office, all three individuals died as a result of gunshot wounds, confirming their deaths as homicides. Brian Crossman was found with gunshot wounds to his head and torso, while Erica Crossman suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Colin Taft had multiple gunshot wounds. The community has been left devastated by this horrific act of violence.

Law enforcement officials have emphasized that this appears to be an isolated incident and that there is no identified threat to the community at large. As of now, no suspects are in custody in connection with the homicides. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are actively pursuing leads and gathering evidence.

Brian Crossman had recently joined the Pawlet Select Board, where he held positions as a liaison to buildings and development, as well as to the town's highway department. He was well-regarded by his colleagues and neighbors, known as a hardworking member of the community. As a mark of respect, flowers were placed at the Pawlet Town Hall, where people gathered ahead of a board meeting to mourn the loss.

Pawlet Select Board Chair, Mike Beecher, expressed his condolences, stating, "This tragedy that struck him and his family has also hit our community hard, and we are shaken and grieving." The close-knit town of Pawlet, with its population of around 1,400, is now rallying together to support one another through this difficult time.

As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials urge anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist in bringing justice to the victims and their families. The town of Pawlet is determined to navigate this tragedy by standing united and supporting one another in their grief.