Frederick Werner died after gunfire inside an East Broadway home.
MILFORD, Conn. — Milford police are investigating a targeted home shooting that killed Frederick Werner and injured Sandra Cooper early Wednesday inside a residence on East Broadway.
The shooting brought a heavy police response to a shoreline neighborhood near Fort Trumbull Beach. Police said Cooper called 911 after waking to find two men inside the home. She told officers she had been shot once in the head and that Werner had been shot multiple times.
Police said officers arrived at 2:56 a.m. and found Werner dead inside the home. Cooper was taken to an area hospital for treatment. Officials have not released a full account of how the men entered the home, whether anything was taken or whether the suspects knew the victims.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled Werner’s death a homicide after an autopsy. Police said the case is not considered domestic violence. Chief Keith Mello said detectives and patrol officers were working around the clock and making “meaningful progress,” though the department limited details because the case remains active.
Crime tape surrounded the home after the shooting, and a police crime scene unit responded. A search warrant was served later Wednesday as investigators processed the house and surrounding area. Police also increased patrols in the neighborhood, saying there was no known continuing threat.
Residents said the shooting shook a calm area known for beach walks and long-standing families. “Nothing ever happens on East Broadway unless it’s fireworks related,” Jeffrey Blake said. Other residents said they were surprised to see investigators and police tape along the waterfront street.
No arrests had been announced in the case. Milford police said the next step is continued detective work, including evidence review and interviews tied to the two men who fled the house before officers arrived.
Author note: Last updated June 6, 2026.