Portland police execute search in Gray tied to Forest Avenue shooting investigation | CPT PPP Coverage

GRAY, Maine — Portland police and several other state and local law enforcement agencies responded to a residence in Gray on Friday evening, where the department confirmed it was executing a search warrant. 

A spokesperson with the Portland Police Department confirmed the search was related to the Forest Avenue shooting investigation but did not share additional details about the matter. 

Four people were brought to the hospital Tuesday night relating to a shooting that was reported around 8:45 p.m. in the area of Merrill’s Corner. 

One person, identified as 54-year-old Susan McHugh, died from a gunshot injury, according to police. Her death was ruled a homicide, and the conditions of the others who were brought to the hospital were not released. 

Police have remained tight-lipped about the investigation. As of Wednesday, officials confirmed that no suspects relating to the shooting investigation have been taken into custody. 

Portland police Maj. Robert Martin said Thursday that releasing further details could “jeopardize” the investigation.

“In situations like this, information is very fluid, and details are changing all the time,” Martin said. “Please know that it is prudent and strategic to make sure all information is correct. In cases like this, with a homicide and a forthcoming prosecution, we are only allowed to release details that the Attorney General’s (AG) office says we can release.”

“Our focus is on putting together an investigation that is thorough, fair and accurate,” Martin added. “The premature release of information can irreversibly harm a criminal investigation and in some cases lead to a dismissal or suppression of evidence.” 

A person who said they witnessed the law enforcement response Friday described what they saw to NEWS CENTER Maine. 

“Around 4:30 [p.m.] the whole street was filled with SUVs. The armored vehicle was blocking the driveway,” the person, who asked that their identity be concealed, said of the scene. 

The person also said they saw a U-Haul come out of the driveway with a black Harley motorcycle. 

The scene in Gray was largely cleared out by 8 p.m. Friday, where several cruisers, an armored vehicle, and crime units responded. A few law enforcement vehicles lingered at the residence and in the area, and Portland police at the scene deferred questions to their criminal investigation division. 

The Maine State Police tactical team assisted Portland police in the response but deferred all questions pertaining to the situation to Portland, Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss told NEWS CENTER Maine.  

Portland police ask that anyone who may have information about the shooting or investigation to call them at 207-874-8575. People can also text keyword PPDME and a message to 847411.

This situation is developing and will be updated as information becomes available.