Hopkinton Man Faces Charges Across States After Police Chase and Shootout
Brenden Sackal, 30, is currently recovering in a New Hampshire hospital following a shootout with Vermont State Police (VSP) during a police chase. According to VSP, Sackal exchanged gunfire with two troopers after they intervened based on information from Hopkinton police.
VSP Maj. Dan Trudeau mentioned during a Monday press briefing that Sackal was wanted in Rhode Island for possession of high-capacity firearm magazines. Trudeau indicated that the case involves further details beyond this initial charge.
Police reports reveal that Sackal has a lengthy criminal record spanning ten years. Since relocating to Hopkinton in 2021, law enforcement has interacted with him on at least 30 occasions.
In events preceding the shootout, neighbors initially mistook gunfire for fireworks on June 29. Subsequent investigation uncovered evidence that Sackal had fired shots into a neighbor’s home, leading police to discover spent firearm cartridges at his Spring Street residence.
Inside the house, authorities found multiple firearms, including ghost guns, along with thousands of rounds of ammunition, a bulletproof vest, and a police radio. Hopkinton Police Chief Mark Carrier expressed concern over the volume of ammunition and its storage methods, suggesting a potential threat.
Carrier noted that Sackal was in New Hampshire at the time of the search, prompting Hopkinton police to coordinate with law enforcement in both New Hampshire and Vermont.
According to VSP, Border Patrol officers spotted Sackal in Pittsburg, New Hampshire, where they attempted to stop him. Despite deploying spike strips that deflated his tires, Sackal continued to flee, eventually crossing into Vermont.
Troopers pursued Sackal to Burke, where he allegedly rammed two VSP cruisers with his truck before exiting and opening fire on the troopers, who returned fire.
Trudeau confirmed that Sackal sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported among those involved in the shootout.
As per standard procedure, the troopers involved have been placed on administrative leave while the investigation continues. VSP stated that pending charges against Sackal are part of an ongoing investigation.
Upon extradition to Rhode Island, Sackal is expected to face additional charges related to the incidents in Hopkinton.