Update Jan. 21: The Bennington Banner reports that Darren Pronto, 32, of Pownal was charged with first-degree murder in the killing of Emily Hamann, 26. Pronto was being held at Southern State Correctional Facility in Springfield. He is accused of "lying in wait" for Hamann and slashing her throat with a knife. The attack was captured on a home security camera, according to police.

The Banner reports that Pronto, who has pleaded not guilty, faces 35 years to life if convicted.

 

 

BENNINGTON, Vt. — A local woman attacked on the river walkway late Monday morning died of her injuries at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. 

 

Police have taken a suspect into custody in the homicide and recovered a weapon believed to be used in the attack. Neither the victim or suspect's have been released by authorities. 

 

In a statement released by Police Chief Paul Doucette, police received a call at about 11:15 a.m. reporting the victim was being attacked on the walkway between North and School streets. Responding officers located the woman and rendered first aid until the Bennington Rescue Squad arrived. 

 

A description of the assailant was provided to officers and the suspect was located on School Street. According to police, the officer attempted to engage the suspect in conversation and, when a second officer arrived, took him into custody. 

 

"The suspect resisted arrest, and after a brief struggle, was taken into custody without further incident," states the report.

 

The victim's body was taken to the Office of the Medical Examiner. 

 

Doucette noted that social media posts had been spreading reports about a bomb or explosive device involved in the incident. 

 

"That is not the case and the public should not be concerned about this," he wrote. "Shortly after the incident occurred on the walkway, someone ignited fireworks in the area of Depot Street." 

 

Anyone with information should contact investigating officers Det. Sgt. Jason or Det. Corey Briggs at 802-442-1030. 

 

No further information was available at this time.