Authorities have identified 39-year-old Amanda Williams as the woman fatally shot by Connecticut State Police during a trooper-involved incident in Bozrah on August 9. The Connecticut Office of the Inspector General released a preliminary report shedding light on the events leading to the shooting.
The incident began around 7:35 p.m. when police responded to a domestic disturbance call at a residence on Gifford Lane. Dispatchers reported a physical altercation and indicated that Williams was allegedly pointing a firearm at a man inside the home. Troopers Brett Cook, Noah Blanchette, and Sergeant Zachary Cash arrived at the scene and observed Williams holding an object resembling a gun.
Officers issued multiple commands for Williams to drop the weapon, but she did not comply. Sergeant Cash attempted to subdue her using pepper ball rounds, a non-lethal method, but this failed to disarm her. The situation escalated rapidly, prompting Trooper Cook to fire one round from his handgun, and Trooper Blanchette to fire two rounds from his Colt M4 rifle. Williams was struck and collapsed at the scene.
Police recovered a .380 Ruger handgun from her hand where she fell. Troopers provided immediate medical aid until emergency medical services arrived, but Williams was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy confirmed her cause of death as a gunshot wound to the neck, with the manner of death ruled homicide. Toxicology reports are pending as the investigation continues.
The Office of the Inspector General confirmed that body camera footage from the troopers involved will be released according to state transparency laws. No final judgment has yet been made regarding the justification of the shooting, and the case remains under active review.
This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces during domestic disputes, particularly when firearms are involved. The ongoing investigation will review all evidence, including witness statements, forensic analysis, and video recordings, to establish a clear timeline and assess whether officers’ actions complied with legal and departmental standards.
Authorities are committed to transparency while ensuring a comprehensive examination of the events that led to Amanda Williams’ tragic death. The investigation remains open as officials work toward conclusions that will inform both public understanding and justice.