A former Connecticut state worker has been arrested and is being held on a $3 million bond after a violent meltdown at the Bristol Police Department. Surveillance footage captured 51-year-old Suzanne Laprise entering the police department office carrying a handgun at around 11:30 p.m. on October 5. Laprise can be seen banging on the front desk windows with her hand and repeatedly striking the glass with her gun. Despite her attempts, the bullet-resistant glass remained intact. Laprise then fired multiple rounds directly at the glass and even shot into the police station ceiling.

Officers at the scene assessed the situation and engaged in an "open dialogue" with Laprise in an attempt to de-escalate the situation. However, Laprise continued to fire additional rounds at the officers. Officer Spencer Boisvert fired two shots in her direction, but no one was injured. Finally, multiple officers rushed towards Laprise when she set the gun down. They deployed an electronic defense weapon before taking her into custody.

Laprise was then transported to Bristol Hospital for evaluation before being charged with a range of offenses. These charges include Criminal Attempt/Murder with Special Circumstance, Illegal Discharge of Firearm, Illegal carry of firearms under the influence of drug/alcohol, Criminal use of Weapon, Violation of Pistol Permit Requirements, Illegal Possession of Large Capacity Magazine, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree, Reckless Endangerment 1st Degree, and Breach of Peace 2nd Degree. She was arraigned at New Britain Superior Court on October 6.

The motive for Laprise's actions remains unclear. The Bristol Police Department has stated that the lobby, where the incident took place, is closed to walk-in complaints for repairs and maintenance resulting from the shooting. Thankfully, no officers or civilians were injured during the violent episode.

Bristol is a town located just outside the state capital, Hartford. Laprise's arrest adds to the growing concerns surrounding law enforcement and public safety in the area. It also highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues and ensuring the safety of both officers and civilians in similar situations.