Connecticut State Police Trooper Shoots Robbery Suspect Who Pulled Out a Revolver

 






Killingly, Connecticut – December 30, 2023: A wanted robbery suspect remains hospitalized after being shot by a Connecticut State Trooper during a foot chase in Dayville, a village within Killingly. The incident unfolded rapidly after authorities in Rhode Island issued a statewide alert about a vehicle linked to a robbery suspect.

According to law enforcement, Rhode Island authorities had broadcast a bulletin regarding a suspect believed to be connected to a recent robbery. The alert described the suspect as operating a Mercury Marquis with Connecticut registration number C257810. Law enforcement agencies in surrounding states were notified and asked to remain vigilant for the vehicle and its driver.

At approximately [exact time not provided], Connecticut State Police Trooper Joseph Godbout spotted the suspect vehicle parked at a Mobil gas station located at 599 Hartford Pike in Dayville, Connecticut. The driver of the vehicle, later identified as Ruben Muller, was seen standing outside the car near the gas pumps.

Trooper Godbout approached Muller and initiated contact by asking for identification. Muller informed the trooper that he did not have a driver’s license. Moments later, without warning, Muller took off on foot across the parking lot, heading in the direction of a nearby Taco Bell restaurant.

Trooper Godbout gave chase, attempting to apprehend the fleeing suspect. During the pursuit, the trooper discharged his department-issued TASER in an attempt to subdue Muller. The deployment was initially effective, causing Muller to fall to the ground briefly. However, Muller quickly regained his footing and continued to flee from the trooper.

As Muller approached the driveway leading into the Taco Bell parking lot, he collided with an incoming truck, which caused him to fall a second time. The unexpected impact briefly stopped his movement and created an opportunity for Trooper Godbout to attempt a second TASER deployment. But what followed escalated the situation dramatically.

While still on the ground near the Taco Bell driveway, Muller reached toward his ankle area. In a matter of seconds, he produced a revolver. Facing an immediate and lethal threat, Trooper Godbout drew his service weapon and discharged a single round, striking Muller in the chest.

Additional officers arrived on scene within minutes, and Trooper Godbout, along with other responding personnel, immediately began rendering emergency medical aid to the suspect. Emergency medical services were quickly called to the scene.

Muller was first transported to Day Kimball Hospital in nearby Putnam, Connecticut for initial treatment. Given the severity of his injuries, he was subsequently airlifted or transferred to UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he remains under medical care.

Officials have confirmed that Muller is receiving treatment but have not released further details on his current condition. The revolver recovered at the scene was secured as evidence, and investigators are working to determine whether the weapon was loaded and if it was used in the robbery for which he was originally wanted.

The incident is now under active investigation by both the Connecticut State Police and appropriate internal review boards, as is standard procedure in all officer-involved shootings. Trooper Godbout has not been reported injured in the encounter and is expected to cooperate fully with the ongoing inquiry.

Authorities have stated that the shooting appears to have been justified based on the suspect’s actions and the presence of a firearm. However, a full review is being conducted to examine the timeline, use of force, and all other circumstances surrounding the encounter.

As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are urging any witnesses or individuals with video footage from the area to come forward. Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.




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