What happens when a community is thrust into chaos by a violent crime? This question looms large over Raymond, New Hampshire, where a police officer was shot on April 4, 2026, during a response to a domestic disturbance. The suspect, 38-year-old Matthew J. Masse, is currently at large and considered armed and dangerous.
The incident unfolded around 1:30 PM when law enforcement was called to a residence on Ham Road due to reports of a man shooting at family members. In the ensuing chaos, an officer was shot, suffering serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Major Brendan T. Davey confirmed that the officer was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
As the situation escalated, authorities issued a shelter-in-place order for residents in the area, advising them to avoid the vicinity while a manhunt was underway. By 3:30 PM, the urgency of the situation prompted law enforcement to deploy a heavy presence, including SWAT teams and federal, county, and local law enforcement agencies. Major Davey stated, “Scores of law enforcement resources are in the area, and the manhunt is very active and will remain so until the suspect is taken into custody.”
Masse, described as a white male standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 202 pounds, fled into a wooded area following the shooting. Police have active felony warrants for him stemming from an incident that occurred just two days prior, on April 2. Chief Michael R. Labell emphasized the seriousness of the situation, saying, “We have active felony warrants for this gentleman based on that incident.” Residents have been urged to report any sightings of Masse to 911 and to avoid engaging with him.
The search area encompasses a large wooded region near Ham Road, Nottingham Road, Route 27, and Blake Road in Epping, indicating the complexity of the manhunt. As the situation develops, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of Masse’s actions leading up to the shooting and his current whereabouts.
The community’s response to this incident reflects a broader concern for public safety in the face of increasing violence. The officer’s name has not been released due to the ongoing investigation, but the ramifications of this event are already being felt throughout Raymond. The police presence remains strong as they continue their search for Masse.
As the investigation unfolds, the question remains: how will the community of Raymond recover from this traumatic event? With law enforcement committed to ensuring public safety, the hope is that the suspect will be apprehended swiftly, restoring a sense of security to the residents of this small New Hampshire town.
