An off-duty Milford police officer pronounced dead on Monday died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the state medical examiner's office.
Police said they received a complaint reporting an untimely death at a home on Naugatuck Avenue at 12:31 a.m. and medics treated the resident, Michael Compare, 36, at the scene.
He was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Police said on Monday afternoon that he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Compare was a three-year veteran of the Milford Police Department, according to a news release from police.
"On behalf of Chief Keith L. Mello and the Milford Police Department, this day is a tragic loss for the family; friends and community Michael belonged to and so proudly served. We thank you for your kind words and support regarding Michael. Michael will be greatly missed," police said in a news release.
The Milford community is also mourning Compare's death.
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"It's kind of shocking," Pat Gray, of Milford, said.
Mazen Alkabbani knew Compare, who came by his store often. Alkabbani said he was one of his best customers.
"It’s so sad what’s happened to hear about his death you know?" Alkabbani said, adding "He served his duty well. He tried to help the community and he did his best."
It's still unknown where Compare shot himself.
"As an officer, you don’t expect this to happen, but I don’t know what’s going on, what happened, what’s on his mind or if something happened," Alkabbani said.
Compare leaves behind a wife.
Milford Police Department said Monday morning that they have asked Connecticut State Police to assist with this investigation.
