Update on Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation in Charlestown, New Hampshire

Concord, NH - Attorney General John M. Formella announces an update on the investigation into the officer-involved shooting that occurred yesterday evening in the area of 60 Caryl Lane in Charlestown, New Hampshire.

Around 8:30 p.m. on Friday November 14, 2025, a Charlestown Police Department officer attempted to stop a speeding motor vehicle not displaying a license plate. This vehicle was operated by Christian Paquette (age 23) driving on Claremont Road in Charlestown, New Hampshire. Mr. Paquette initially refused to bring his car to a stop and accelerated away, and a police pursuit began during which speeds reached an estimated 90 miles per hour. Eventually, Mr. Paquette stopped his car, exited, and began to flee on foot.

During the subsequent foot pursuit, the officer saw Mr. Paquette holding a knife. Mr. Paquette refused to drop the weapon and came towards the officer. During subsequent interaction, the officer used deadly force and fired his weapon. Mr. Paquette was struck by this gunfire and was taken to a local hospital. There were no other occupants in his vehicle. Mr. Paquette remains hospitalized at this time in stable condition, and the law enforcement officer was not physically injured. The officer was wearing a body worn camera at the time of the shooting, and that camera recorded the moments immediately before, during, and following the shooting.

Mr. Paquette has been charged with various offenses by the Charlestown Police Department in connection with the police chase of his vehicle, and his actions towards the officer.

The investigation by the New Hampshire Department of Justice into the shooting of Mr. Paquette is ongoing with the assistance of the New Hampshire State Police Major Crime Unit. The identity of the officer using deadly force will not be disclosed until a formal interview takes place. This is expected to occur sometime in the next 5-10 business days. Further information will be provided at that time.