PAWLET, VT – A locally respected official, his wife, and her son were all shot to death in their Vermont home, as reported by state police. The victims identified are Brian Crossman, 46, who served on the Pawlet’s Select Board; his wife, Erica Crossman, 41; and her son, Colin Taft, 13.
As per a news release issued by the Vermont State Police on Tuesday night, the victims were discovered deceased on Sunday. Their deaths are being treated by investigators as homicides.
Despite the ongoing investigations, no arrests have been made thus far. However, police have reportedly zeroed in on a person of interest who happens to be a relative of the victims.
Based on the autopsies, it was determined that Brian Crossman succumbed to gunshot wounds on his head and torso, Erica Crossman due to a gunshot wound to the head, and Colin Taft due to multiple gunshot wounds.
The Pawlet Select Boardƒ, a group elected by the town folks to oversee town expenses and enact regulations, convened their regular meeting on Tuesday night. Crossman’s seat remained vacant, with flowers placed as a symbol of remembrance.
On behalf of the five-member board, Chairperson Mike Beecher extended a heartfelt tribute, remembering Crossman as a diligent community member and cherished friend.
Beecher expressed that Crossman’s untimely departure, along with that of his family members, has deeply shaken the community and left them in mourning. He conveyed the board’s deepest sympathy to those affected by this disastrous loss.
Local residents shared that the shooting has left them unnerved. Neighbor Oliver Ihasz, in particular, admitted to struggling with understanding the horrific incident.