New Hampshire Trooper's Use of Force Deemed Justified in Hospital Shooting
A state trooper's fatal shooting of a man at a New Hampshire psychiatric hospital has been ruled justified. The incident, which occurred 9 months ago, involved a former patient who had killed a security guard.
In a report released on August 22, 2024, New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella declared that State Trooper Nathan Sleight acted justifiably when he used deadly force against John Madore at the New Hampshire Hospital in Concord on November 17, 2023. The incident, which occurred at the state's psychiatric facility, resulted in the deaths of both Madore and security officer Bradley Haas.
The report details the events that unfolded at the hospital, located in New Hampshire's capital city. Madore, a former patient, entered the facility and immediately opened fire on Haas, an unarmed security officer stationed at the entrance. The assailant then proceeded to shoot at various targets in the lobby, including walls and a secured door.
As Madore attempted to reload his weapon, Trooper Sleight, who has 11 years of law enforcement experience, intervened. Despite commands to drop the gun, Madore continued his actions, prompting Sleight to discharge his service weapon. The entire incident transpired in less than a minute, as captured by security cameras.
The investigation revealed that Madore had a history of mental health issues and had previously been a patient at the hospital. He had two separate stays: a 13-day period in February 2016 and a longer 9-month stay from May 2016 to March 2017. According to Madore's father, he had expressed paranoid ideations about the hospital staff, believing they intended to harvest his organs.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by mental health facilities and law enforcement in managing potentially dangerous situations. New Hampshire, known for its motto "Live Free or Die," has a unique approach to governance and public safety. The state's Department of Safety, responsible for incidents like this, operates within a framework that includes a large legislature called the General Court.
While this tragic event occurred at a healthcare facility, it's worth noting that New Hampshire is home to various institutions, including Dartmouth College, an Ivy League school. The state, which holds the first-in-the-nation primary in U.S. presidential elections, balances its political significance with its natural beauty, including the highest peak in the Northeast, Mount Washington.
As the community reflects on this incident, it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between mental health, public safety, and the responsibilities of law enforcement in the Granite State.
"I hate this place."
This statement, attributed to Madore, underscores the complex emotions and challenges associated with mental health treatment and institutional care.
