A police officer in Bedford, New Hampshire, is recovering at home after being shot by his own gun during a struggle with a suspect early Saturday morning. The officer, identified as 24-year-old David Benway-Fongemie, was injured in the upper thigh and is doing well, according to Bedford Police Chief Daniel Douidi.
The incident began shortly before 1 a.m. Saturday when two patrol officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle in a wooded area near South River Road. Upon arrival, the officers, including a K9 officer, began investigating and identified the suspect as 40-year-old Jared Masseur of Nashua.
During the investigation, Masseur fled on foot, and the officers attempted to take him into custody. However, he resisted and began to struggle with the officers. In the midst of the struggle, Masseur reached for one of the officers' holsters, attempting to take his service weapon. The officer's gun discharged, striking Benway-Fongemie in the upper thigh.
Despite being injured, Benway-Fongemie gained control of the weapon and called for his K9, Odin, who assisted the two officers in apprehending Masseur. Masseur sustained minor injuries from the scuffle and was treated by emergency medical services before being taken to a local hospital.
Benway-Fongemie, who was hired by the Bedford Police Department on September 9, 2024, was taken to a Manchester hospital for treatment. Masseur is facing four charges, including resisting arrest, felon in possession of a dangerous weapon, attempting to take a weapon from a law enforcement officer, and second-degree assault. Additional charges may also be forthcoming.
Masseur was held without bail after a virtual hearing on Saturday and is scheduled to be arraigned at Merrimack District Court on Monday. It is unclear if he has retained an attorney.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. The Bedford Police Department is grateful that Officer Benway-Fongemie is recovering well and appreciates the support of the community during this time. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the department is working to ensure that justice is served.
