Vermont Attorney General Clears Burlington Officer in Shooting
Authorities decline to prosecute Officer Brady McGee for the September 2025 shooting of an armed suspect.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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The Vermont Attorney General and the Chittenden County State's Attorney have declined to file charges against Officer Brady McGee for the shooting of Aaron Loucks. The incident occurred on September 21, 2025, following a lengthy police standoff.
Why it matters
The decision follows an investigation determining that Officer McGee reasonably feared for his life and the lives of others during the confrontation. This finding closes the legal review of the use-of-force incident involving the Burlington officer.
Officer Brady McGee shot 33-year-old Aaron Loucks once in the abdomen after a 12-hour standoff. No charges were filed against the officer following the joint review by state and county prosecutors.
The players
Brady McGee
He is the Burlington police officer who was involved in the shooting of an armed suspect.
Aaron Loucks
He is the 33-year-old individual who was shot during the standoff on Riverside Avenue.
Sarah George
She serves as the Chittenden County State's Attorney and participated in the decision to decline prosecution.
The details
During the standoff on Riverside Avenue, police deployed chemical irritants to force Aaron Loucks out of an apartment. Officer McGee discharged his weapon after the suspect, who was armed with a knife, charged toward officers.
Timeline
September 21, 2025: Officer McGee shot Aaron Loucks during a standoff.
Legal Context
The clearing of Officer McGee reflects the strict application of Vermont use-of-force legal standards regarding mortal danger. This decision aligns with the state's established protocol for evaluating officer-involved shootings in Burlington.
The conclusion of the legal review marks the end of an active investigation into the Riverside Avenue incident. Residents will not see ongoing police activity related to this specific case or further court proceedings involving the officer.
The takeaway
The resolution of this case underscores the complexity of evaluating force during high-stress, prolonged police standoffs. It provides finality for the Burlington community and clarifies the legal outcome for all parties involved.
Further reading
For more information on local policy, see the Law Enforcement section.
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