Portland Police Shot Suspect in Fatal Stabbing
Officers shot 41-year-old Brian Oliver after he allegedly killed a 69-year-old man.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Violence
Portland police shot and injured 41-year-old Brian Oliver after he allegedly killed 69-year-old Mark Tschamler at 27 Colonial Road. Tschamler was pronounced dead at the scene, while Oliver remains under treatment.
Why it matters
The shooting occurred after the suspect refused to comply with officer commands to drop his weapon, triggering an investigation into the fatal altercation. Brian Oliver is currently expected to face murder charges following the incident.
Officers Joseph Lowe and David Moore fired on the suspect, who is now receiving care at Maine Medical Center. The investigation into the incident at 27 Colonial Road is ongoing as prosecutors prepare murder charges.
The players
Brian Oliver
The 41-year-old suspect is currently receiving treatment for gunshot wounds at Maine Medical Center.
Mark Tschamler
The 69-year-old victim was found deceased at the scene of the incident.
Joseph Lowe
This police officer was one of the two responders involved in the shooting of the suspect.
David Moore
This police officer was one of the two responders involved in the shooting of the suspect.
The details
Police arrived at the Colonial Road residence at 8 p.m. on Monday after receiving reports of the altercation. Officers opened fire on Brian Oliver after he failed to obey verbal commands to drop his weapon.
Timeline
Police responded to the scene at 8 p.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026.
Legal Context
This incident falls under established state procedures for reviewing officer-involved shootings. Such cases typically undergo independent review to ensure compliance with legal force standards in Maine.
Residents near the Colonial Road area may experience localized traffic disruptions as authorities conclude their on-site investigation. For additional inquiries regarding the ongoing case, the public can contact the police department at 207-874-8575.
The takeaway
The investigation remains active as authorities process the scene of this fatal altercation. Local residents are encouraged to reach out to official department channels for any future updates on the status of the case.
Further reading
For more information on incidents in the area, visit the Portland Violence section.
