NORTH WINDHAM, Maine – August 15, 2025 — Authorities have confirmed that James Ford, the suspected gunman in Friday’s North Windham shooting, died from a self-inflicted injury following an extensive manhunt and community lockdown.
According to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began Friday morning when reports of an active shooter in North Windham prompted an immediate and large-scale law enforcement response. Schools, businesses, and government buildings across the area were placed on lockdown as tactical teams, deputies, and state troopers combed through neighborhoods in search of the suspect.
Investigators say Ford was identified early on as the individual responsible for the violence. Witness accounts and security footage linked him to the shooting, though officials have not yet released details about a possible motive.
The manhunt stretched for several tense hours, with officers establishing perimeters and urging residents to remain indoors. Community members reported seeing helicopters overhead, heavily armed officers patrolling the streets, and law enforcement vehicles blocking major intersections. For many, the experience was both frightening and surreal.
By late afternoon, authorities located Ford in a wooded area on the outskirts of town. Officials say he was already suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound when he was found. Despite emergency medical attention, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff’s Office spokesman Capt. Daniel Rivers described the conclusion as “a tragic but necessary resolution to a very dangerous situation.” He added, “While we are grateful no additional lives were lost today, our hearts go out to everyone affected by this traumatic event. We understand the fear and uncertainty the community experienced, and we are committed to providing support and resources in the aftermath.”
The incident left the town shaken, with many residents still processing the events. Local officials have announced that counseling and crisis response teams will be available for anyone impacted by the shooting and lockdown.
At this time, investigators are piecing together the timeline of events leading up to the shooting, including how Ford obtained the weapon and whether others may have been involved in any way. The sheriff’s office has said additional updates will be released as the investigation progresses.
For now, relief and sorrow intertwine across North Windham—a community grateful that the immediate threat has ended, but mourning the tragedy and trauma left in its wake.
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