In a shocking turn of events, the tranquil town of Pawlet, Vermont, has been rocked by a tragic incident. Three individuals, including a local official, were discovered deceased in their residence over the weekend of September 14-15, 2024.
Vermont State Police have identified the victims as Brian Crossman, 46, a member of the Pawlet selectboard; Erica Crossman, 41; and Colin Taft, 13. The authorities have classified all three deaths as homicides, intensifying the gravity of the situation in this close-knit community of approximately 1,400 residents.
Pawlet, chartered in 1761 by Benning Wentworth, the colonial governor of New Hampshire, is known for its rich history and strong sense of community. The town, nestled in the Taconic Mountains, has long been a place of scenic beauty and rural charm. However, this tragic event has cast a shadow over the usually peaceful locale.
As of September 17, 2024, law enforcement officials have stated that the investigation remains active, with no individuals currently in custody. The community, known for its civic engagement and volunteer spirit, is grappling with the loss of one of its dedicated public servants.
The Pawlet selectboard, responsible for overseeing town expenditures and enacting ordinances, convened for their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, September 17. The absence of Brian Crossman was poignantly marked by flowers placed at his vacant seat, a touching tribute to their fallen colleague.
During the meeting, Mike Beecher, the chairperson of the five-member board, delivered a heartfelt statement:
"Brian Crossman was a friend and neighbor, a hardworking community member who just this year stepped up to join the Pawlet Selectboard. This tragedy that struck him and his family has also hit our community hard, and we are shaken and grieving. Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this devastating loss."
The impact of this tragedy extends beyond the immediate victims, touching the lives of many in this close-knit Vermont town. Pawlet, with its population of 1,477 as of the 2020 census, is a community where neighbors know each other well and civic participation is a way of life.
As the investigation continues, the town, known for its historic architecture and buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, finds itself at the center of a story that contrasts sharply with its usual peaceful existence. The Mettawee Community School, serving local students, and the town's various small businesses and farms now operate under the shadow of this tragic event.
The community, which typically comes together for events like the annual Pawlet Public Library Book Sale, now faces the challenge of supporting one another through this difficult time. As the picturesque Mettawee Valley grapples with this unprecedented situation, the strength and resilience of Pawlet's residents will undoubtedly be put to the test.