In Bristol, Connecticut, a woman was apprehended after reportedly discharging a firearm in a police department lobby late Thursday night. The suspect, identified as Suzanne Laprise, 51, of Plainville, Connecticut, was taken into custody following the incident at the Bristol Police Department.
Laprise allegedly arrived at the police department around 10:35 p.m. and began firing multiple rounds into the front desk office window, which was unoccupied at the time. Despite attempts by officers to negotiate, she continued to fire at the bullet-resistant glass of the desk, according to police reports.
The bullet-resistant glass successfully prevented any injuries to the officers present. However, the lobby had to be temporarily closed to walk-in complaints to facilitate necessary repairs and maintenance. The Bristol Police Department commended the officers’ response to the incident, highlighting their calm, professional demeanor in a potentially life-threatening situation, which resulted in no serious injuries or loss of life.
Laprise was released from the hospital early Friday morning after undergoing an evaluation. She faces multiple charges, including Illegal Discharge of a Firearm, Illegal carry of firearms under the influence of drug/alcohol, Criminal Use of weapon, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree, Criminal Attempt/Murder with Special Circumstance, and Breach of Peace 2nd Degree.
The incident is currently under investigation by the Connecticut State Police Central District Major Crimes Division and the Inspector General’s Office. Laprise was arraigned on Friday, with her bail initially set at $3 million. However, Judge Maureen M. Keegan later reduced the bail to $1 million, requiring Laprise to provide $300,000 herself for release.
Laprise, who is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 17, remains in custody. She previously worked for a state agency assisting developmentally disabled individuals and retired in 2020. Her public defender, David Napierkowski, stated that Laprise has a son with Down syndrome and has never had a previous encounter with the law. He emphasized that she is innocent until proven guilty.