Manchester Police Fatally Shoot Andrew E. Smith After Altercation in New Hampshire

Manchester, New Hampshire, was shaken by a tragic incident on Friday morning when local police shot and killed 56-year-old Andrew E. Smith. The shooting occurred in the area of Beech and Bridge streets, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.

According to reports from Manchester police, the incident unfolded shortly after 9:30 a.m. when officers approached Andrew E. Smith on Bridge Street to engage in conversation. Smith informed the officer that he was in possession of a firearm, prompting the officer to instruct him to keep his hands visible.

However, instead of complying, Smith reached into his pocket, retrieving a pistol, which sparked a struggle between him and the officer. During the altercation, Smith fired the pistol, prompting the officer to respond with gunfire. Smith sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries.

Tragically, Smith succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. The New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office confirmed the details of the incident, stating that an autopsy conducted on Saturday revealed the cause of death as multiple gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen, with the manner of death classified as homicide.

Authorities clarified that the officer involved in the shooting was equipped with a body-worn camera, capturing the entire sequence of events. The footage from the camera is being preserved as part of the ongoing investigation by the attorney general’s office.

In a statement, the attorney general’s office emphasized that the identity of the officer who fired the fatal shots will not be disclosed until formal interviews are conducted, a process expected to unfold within the next five to 10 business days. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under thorough investigation to determine the sequence of events and the justification for the use of deadly force.

The incident has stirred emotions within the Manchester community, prompting discussions about police procedures and the escalation of encounters involving firearms. As the investigation progresses, authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist in ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the events leading to Andrew E. Smith’s tragic death.

Updates on the investigation will be provided as they become available, as the Manchester community seeks clarity and justice in the aftermath of this unfortunate incident. The thoughts and condolences of the community go out to the family and friends of Andrew E. Smith during this difficult time.