Francestown, NH – A Francestown man was taken into custody Wednesday after allegedly assaulting a police chief and barricading himself in his home, prompting a large-scale law enforcement response.
According to the New Hampshire State Police, the incident began at approximately 9:30 a.m. when Hillsborough County Dispatch received a report of a disturbance on Old County Road North. The suspect, identified as Richard Vannostrand, 47, of Francestown, was reportedly shouting at a mail carrier and attempting to damage the mail truck. Francestown Police Chief Frederick Douglas responded to the scene and was allegedly assaulted by Vannostrand, sustaining significant but non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities say Vannostrand then barricaded himself inside his residence. Multiple departments, including the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and police from New Boston, Greenfield, Bennington, Hillsboro, Hancock, Peterborough, and Antrim responded. A perimeter was established as New Hampshire State Police SWAT and Crisis Negotiation Units arrived on scene.
Out of caution, police advised area residents and visitors to avoid the vicinity. Traffic was impacted throughout the day as the standoff continued.
At approximately 5:15 p.m., Vannostrand was taken into custody using less-than-lethal force and sustained minor injuries, according to officials. He was transported to a local hospital and is scheduled for a remote court appearance at 11 a.m. Thursday in Goffstown District Court. Charges include felony second-degree assault and resisting arrest or detention.
Chief Douglas received treatment at a hospital and is expected to recover. No other officers were injured during the incident. All affected roads have since reopened and residents were permitted to return to their homes.
Fire department personnel from Francestown and Peterborough also assisted at the scene. Authorities noted no booking photo is currently available.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram & like us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have something you’d like to let us know about? Message us on our social channels and let us know about it!
