Fatal NH Police-Involved Shooting: Probe Ongoing

CANAAN, NH — New Hampshire authorities are continuing the investigation into a fatal, police-involved shooting near the White Mountains Christmas weekend. A New Hampshire State Police trooper shot and killed Jesse Champney, 26, of Enfield, Saturday during an unspecified confrontation, according to state Attorney General Gordon MacDonald.

The shooting happened in a field by Route 4 in Canaan, MacDonald said. Champney was shot four times, according to an autopsy.

"The officer who discharged his firearm was Trooper Christopher O’Toole," MacDonald said in a statement. "The other law enforcement officer who was present during the incident was Canaan Police
Officer Samuel Provenza. Officer Provenza did not discharge his firearm during the incident."

MacDonald added, "The exact circumstances surrounding this incident remain actively under investigation. It is anticipated that a preliminary report regarding whether Trooper O’Toole’s use of deadly force was justified will be released once the investigation is completed."

Per State Police protocol, O'Toole was placed on paid administrative leave pending the results of the investigation.

Canaan is in Grafton County in central New Hampshire about 10 miles southwest of the White Mountains.

Previous:

Man Shot, Killed By New Hampshire State Police In Canaan

Photo credit: Shutterstock