Scott Garvey Obituary, Death – Authorities have released the identities of both the man who was fatally shot and the trooper involved in an officer-involved shooting that occurred Monday in Putney, Vermont. According to the Vermont State Police, the trooper who discharged his weapon during the incident was Peter Romeo, who has been with the department since 2022. The individual who was killed has been identified as 55-year-old Scott Garvey, a resident of the Putney Landing apartment complex, where the shooting took place.
The incident began as a response to a reported mental health crisis. The Brattleboro Reformer reported that Garvey had barricaded himself inside his apartment, leading to a prolonged police presence at the complex throughout the day. Neighbors informed police that Garvey had been acting in a threatening manner, which prompted further concern.
Authorities say the situation escalated when troopers entered the apartment around 4:30 p.m. State police say that upon entry, officers believed they saw what appeared to be a firearm in Garvey’s hands. Despite giving commands, they say Garvey did not comply, leading to the decision to use deadly force.
Trooper Romeo fired his service weapon, striking Garvey in the torso and the lower part of his left leg. Medical aid was provided, but Garvey was later pronounced dead. The Vermont State Police have not confirmed whether Garvey was actually holding a real firearm or another object at the time.
The incident has sparked questions about how law enforcement responds to mental health emergencies. The fact that the situation began as a crisis involving someone in emotional distress has drawn attention from community members and advocacy groups, who are calling for transparency and a full investigation.
As per standard protocol, Trooper Romeo has been placed on administrative leave while the shooting is under review. The Vermont State Police and the state’s Attorney General’s Office are leading the investigation to determine whether the use of force was justified under the circumstances.
No other injuries were reported during the incident. Authorities have not said whether any officers were wearing body cameras, and it’s unclear what specific tactics were used in the lead-up to entering the apartment.
Residents of the Putney Landing complex say the incident left them shaken. Some described hearing loud commands and gunshots during the tense standoff. Others expressed concern over how the situation was handled, particularly in light of Garvey’s reported mental health condition.
Investigators are expected to review all available evidence, including witness statements and any video footage, to determine exactly what happened. Meanwhile, both the community and the family of Scott Garvey are awaiting answers about the events that led to his death.
As the investigation continues, officials say they will release more information as it becomes available. The case is likely to reignite broader discussions on mental health response strategies and the role of police in handling such emergencies.
