Branford police response to domestic incident this morning unfolded into a regional SWAT assist by 1 p.m. About three hours later, it ended when police entered the home and located a deceased male, the subject of the initial police response.

Following the end of the incident, Branford Police released the following statement on Dec. 24:

Branford Police are investigating the untimely death of Joseph Franco, (DOB 8/23/74) of 636 Main Street, 3rd. Floor, after he was located in his home deceased at approximately 3:30 p.m.

Officers responded to Franco's home to interview him concerning a reported domestic dispute which happened during the early morning hours. Lt. Patrick O'Malley, who is the day shift Commander, said that as officers approached the third floor apartment they observed indicators that Franco may have been in possession of a firearm; and despondent. Based on the information, Branford officers secured the residence until members of the South Central Regional SWAT (SCRSWAT) team arrived to establish communications with Franco.

Chief Kevin Halloran said at 3:30 p.m., after hours of unsuccessful attempts to communicate with Franco, the SCRSWAT team and the department's K-9, Joker made entry into the residence and located Franco deceased.

As this time, Franco's death remains under investigation. Branford Police Detectives are being assisted by members of the Connecticut State Police Major Crimes Division.