Maine State Police Shoot and Kill Homicide Suspect in Standoff
In a dramatic turn of events, Maine State Police confirmed the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Shay McKenna on Wednesday. The incident unfolded as officers attempted to apprehend him, marking a tragic end to a tense standoff.
McKenna, a homicide suspect, was under investigation due to his involvement in his brother’s death on December 19, 2022. He had been released on bail but was prohibited from possessing firearms. However, police observed him carrying a weapon, leading to a swift response.
The Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit had obtained an arrest warrant for McKenna, citing a violation of bail conditions. This warranted a search for his whereabouts, which ultimately led authorities to Rangeley Plantation.
Upon locating McKenna, a crisis negotiation team engaged with him, making it clear that he was under arrest. Despite these efforts, McKenna exited a concealed van wearing a bulletproof vest and carrying a rifle, provoking a confrontation with Maine State Trooper Jeffrey Parks.
Regrettably, the confrontation escalated, resulting in Trooper Parks shooting McKenna. Tragically, McKenna succumbed to his injuries at the scene, with the incident occurring at 4:33 p.m.
As part of standard protocol in officer-involved shootings, Trooper Parks will be placed on administrative leave pending further investigation.
For inquiries regarding the incident, the state police have directed the public to the state attorney general’s office. However, a spokesperson for the attorney general’s office declined to comment further on Thursday.