FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, Nov. 12, 2018

Media Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Rochester Police Arrest Armed Man Following Search in Woods Near Walmart

ROCHESTER — Chief Paul Toussaint reports that the Rochester Police Department arrested the armed suspect in the woods near Walmart.

CHRISTOPHER L. THOMAS, AGE 27, HOMELESS, is charged with four counts of Reckless Conduct with a Deadly Weapon (Felony). He also has three warrants for Criminal Threatening, along with four warrants for Theft.

At 10:20 a.m., members of the SWAT teams approached THOMAS, who surrendered without incident. No injuries were reported.

Businesses are now able to open and Ten Rod Road has been deemed safe for hunters.

On Sunday, Nov. 11, at 12:11 p.m., Rochester Police received a report that a man, armed with a rifle, was seen in the rear parking lot of Walmart, 116 Farmington Road, before disappearing into the woods.

Overnight, THOMAS fired shots at police. Rochester Police and members of the SWAT teams then established a perimeter around his location, ultimately allowing them to take THOMAS into custody this morning.

“We appreciate community members’ patience as we located the suspect and resolved this situation,” Chief Toussaint said. “This was a true collaborative effort between the Rochester Police Department, Strafford County and Seacoast CERT SWAT teams, the New Hampshire and Maine State Police, and the Manchester Police Department.”

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