A serene Vermont town was shattered by a gruesome discovery on Sunday when a local politician, his wife, and her son were found dead in their ancestral cottage.
The Daily Mail reported that the community of Pawlet is reeling from the triple murder of a select board member and his family, with investigations currently underway and a person of interest being closely watched.
The unsettling event unfolded in Pawlet, a quiet town near the border of New York State. Brian Crossman, 46, his wife Erica, 41, and her son, Colin Taft, 13, were discovered with fatal gunshot wounds in their family cottage early on Sunday morning.
The grim scene was first reported by a bloodstained relative who called 911 from a nearby school, immediately drawing police attention to the cottage.
This relative, found in a distressed state, has since been identified as a person of interest in the ongoing investigation.
Local law enforcement swiftly responded, confirming the deaths at the scene and escorting the relative to assist in piecing together the events leading up to the tragedy.
Despite the severity of the crime, authorities have assured there is no further danger to the community.
Brian Crossman, apart from his duties on the Pawlet Select Board, was deeply integrated into the community as a liaison to the town's Highway Department and for building maintenance. His commitment extended beyond his professional life into significant community roles after he recently took over his family's farm operations.
In memory of his service, his colleagues on the select board adorned his usual seat with flowers, a solemn tribute to a valued community member.
The select board itself plays a critical role in Pawlet, overseeing town expenditures and ordinance enactments.
As news of the tragedy spread, the small community of approximately 1,400 residents was left in shock, grappling with the sudden loss of one of their own.
"Brian Crossman was a friend and neighbor, a hardworking community member who just this year stepped up to join the Pawlet Select board," remarked Mike Beecher, Chairman of the Pawlet Select Board.
"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," Beecher added, echoing the sentiments of many in Pawlet who knew the Crossmans personally.
The investigation led by Vermont State Police continues as they work to ascertain the motive and full circumstances surrounding the murders. While no arrests have been made, the community remains hopeful for justice as they mourn the untimely demise of the Crossman family.
