Ludlow Police Chief Cleared in New Year’s Day Shooting

Ludlow Police Chief Jeffrey Warfle has been cleared by the Vermont Attorney General’s Office in connection with the non-fatal shooting of Jaime Gomez, 18, which occurred on January 1, 2026, at the Fox Run Inn. The Attorney General determined Chief Warfle was justified in using deadly force after Gomez allegedly lunged at him with a knife.

Details of the Incident

According to the Vermont Attorney General’s Office, Chief Warfle responded to a 911 call reporting a noise disturbance at the Fox Run Inn around 6:22 a.m. On New Year’s Day . Upon arrival, he encountered Jaime Gomez, who was reportedly agitated and destroying property. While speaking with a witness, Gomez allegedly pulled a knife from his pocket and lunged at Chief Warfle .

Chief Warfle fired his gun twice, striking Gomez in the left forearm and abdomen . The Attorney General’s Office concluded that Chief Warfle reasonably believed he was in imminent danger and was justified in using deadly force , .

Legal Consequences

Jaime Gomez is facing charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and attempted aggravated assault with a deadly weapon . He recently pleaded not guilty to charges of attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault and is being held without bail .

Initial Interaction

Prior to the altercation, Chief Warfle had a peaceful, three-minute conversation with Gomez, who repeatedly asked, “What was I yelling about?” . Chief Warfle noted Gomez “seemed like you’re maybe in crisis,” to which Gomez responded, “No crisis.” .

Gomez was taken to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center following the shooting and had been hospitalized for several weeks .