Authorities in Vermont are currently conducting an investigation into the suspicious death of a woman on the Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail in Castleton. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, with the woman's body being discovered at approximately 4:30 p.m. Vermont State Police responded to a call reporting the deceased woman and promptly arrived at the scene. Upon arrival, they pronounced the woman dead.

According to a witness, gunshots were heard before the possible suspect was spotted walking northbound on the trail towards Vermont State University Castleton, formerly known as Castleton University. The witness described the suspect as a White male with short, dark hair, standing at around 5 feet, 10 inches tall. He was last seen wearing a dark gray t-shirt and carrying a black backpack.

In response to the incident, Vermont State Police have classified the suspect as "armed and dangerous" and have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or activities. They have requested businesses and the local community to review their surveillance footage from the afternoon and evening of October 5, 2023, for any potential evidence of the suspect.

As a precautionary measure, Vermont State University issued a shelter-in-place order for students on campus at approximately 6 p.m. on Thursday. The Town of Castleton has also taken steps to ensure the safety of residents and students, with troopers from the Vermont State Police casing homes in the area in an attempt to locate and make contact with the suspect. Residents and students have been advised to stay aware of their surroundings, keep doors and vehicles locked, and avoid leaving keys in vehicles.

South Street and the Rail Trail have been closed to travel, and the Town of Castleton has advised individuals to utilize the buddy system when entering unlocked buildings or outbuildings. They have also encouraged people to carry a cell phone whenever possible. Tips and relevant information regarding the case can be reported to the Vermont State Police in Rutland.

The investigation into the suspicious death is currently in its preliminary stages, with various law enforcement agencies involved in the case, including the Vermont State Police Major Crime Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Field Force Division, Crime Scene Search Team, Victim Services Unit, and Castleton Police Department. The Chief Medical Examiner's Office in Burlington will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.

Castleton, a small town with a population of approximately 4,500, is located about seven miles east of the Vermont-New York border. The Rail Trail, officially known as the Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail, spans 19.8 miles and is open for recreational use, including walking, biking, and seasonal activities such as horseback riding, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling.

This is an ongoing investigation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.