On Friday, November 17, 2023, a shooting incident at the New Hampshire State Hospital, a psychiatric treatment facility, resulted in the deaths of two individuals. 

A 33-year-old assailant, identified as John Madore, entered the hospital’s lobby armed with a handgun and additional weapons in his vehicle. He fatally shot Bradley Haas, a 63-year-old security guard and former police chief, inside the lobby.

Madore was shot and killed by a New Hampshire State trooper who was on patrol in the area. Officials later commended the trooper’s rapid response and Haas’s intervention, noting that their actions helped prevent further casualties.

At the time of the shooting, there were no established links between Madore and the hospital or its employees. The facility, known for treating mental health patients, was promptly secured by state police. Although approximately 185 individuals were in the hospital during the incident, no patients were harmed.

The event prompted discussions regarding security measures in healthcare settings, particularly in psychiatric hospitals. New Hampshire State Hospital, like other similar institutions, employs stringent security protocols including metal detectors for visitors.

The motives behind Madore’s actions remain under investigation. In response to the incident, Governor Chris Sununu commended the swift actions of the first responders and law enforcement personnel. The hospital continued its operations after the event but restricted visitor access for the evening.