Gov. LePage Suspends Hunting In Area Of Manhunt For Suspected Killer

Due to the ongoing manhunt for the suspect who shot and killed Somerset County Deputy Sheriff Corporal Eugene Cole earlier this week, Gov. Paul LePage has issued an emergency proclamation that suspends all hunting, including the start of turkey season, in the portions of Norridgewock, Skowhegan and Fairfield.

The suspect John Williams, 29, of Madison, remained at large on Friday.

The proclamation suspends until further notice all hunting to include youth wild-turkey hunting day on Saturday April 28, and regular wild-turkey season, which begins Monday April 30. The map below defines the area where hunting is suspended in portions of Norridgewock, Skowhegan and Fairfield.

Considering the ongoing manhunt in that area, LePage said in a statement, a heavy police presence remains and will continue until the suspect is apprehended. The activities associated with hunting may trigger residents to report suspicious activity and cause an unnecessary police response, the governor's statement continued.

“I am using my executive authority to ensure the safety of the public and our law enforcement officers,” said LePage. “We are heartbroken yet determined to find the fugitive and bring him to justice as swiftly as possible. I thank our law enforcement officers and those from the federal government and surrounding states for their hard work in difficult conditions over the past several days.”