Police: Driver shot himself after crashing into marsh following chase

HAMPTON - Safety officials say a man led Hampton Police on a high speed chase through an area of high-density beach traffic before crashing into a bog, exiting the vehicle and turning a gun on themselves Sunday afternoon.

The driver, who was not identified, is in critical condition after sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, the press release from State Police Troop A stated.

The incident unfolded around 4:40 p.m. as a Hampton officer spotted the subject driving erratically on Route 101, according to state police.

"The vehicle was observed driving westerly within the eastbound lanes of travel and nearly collided with several vehicles," police said.

Reversing directions to stop the suspect vehicle, a Hampton police officer reported seeing the suspect accelerate and complete a left-hand turn on to Landing Road, which was heavily populated with beach traffic, the release stated.

"The actions of the driver were both dangerous and reckless, and Hampton police continued behind the suspect in an attempt to stop the driver," they said.

As the driver sped along Landing Road he lost control on a curve, left the roadway and landed in a marsh.

"After crashing, Hampton police reported seeing the driver's door open and a figure moving through nearby bushes. As Hampton police exited their vehicles, a single gunshot was heard. The driver appeared to have a single, self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head," state police said. "No shots were discharged by police."

Police provided emergency medical aid at the scene and the driver was ultimately transported to Portsmouth Regional Hospital where he remains in critical condition.

The investigation is being handled by New Hampshire State Police. Identity of the suspect is being withheld pending notification of family. Anyone with information can email Detective Sergeant John Kelly at johs.s.kelly@dos.nh.gov.