Former acting New Bedford fire chief Paul Coderre killed in Fairhaven shooting with police

Paul Coderre, the former acting New Bedford fire chief, was fatally shot after engaging in gunfire with police in Fairhaven, as revealed by Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn.

Authorities were summoned to the Bayside Lounge on Sconticut Neck Road at approximately 5 p.m. following a report of a disturbance involving an extremely intoxicated individual.

Quinn mentioned that Coderre had been drinking at the bar for an extended period, leading to a confrontation.

Upon leaving the bar, he tried to drive away, and a bystander intervened, resulting in a physical altercation in the parking lot.

Upon police arrival, Coderre was armed, and officers from Fairhaven, Acushnet, and Mattapoisett attempted non-lethal means to engage with him and subdue the situation.

After firing his handgun, Coderre faced gunfire from the police, resulting in his death, as stated by Quinn.

An Acushnet police officer sustained injuries during the exchange and received treatment at a New Bedford hospital before being released.

An investigation into the incident is currently in progress. Coderre, aged 55, was relieved of his position as New Bedford Deputy Fire Chief in January 2022 due to allegations of dishonesty regarding work-related injuries.

The Massachusetts Civil Service Commission overturned his termination earlier this month.

This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.