Man Shot and Killed by Police in Skowhegan

Authorities say the New York resident allegedly fired a gun and pointed it at officers.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A Skowhegan police officer shot and killed a 30-year-old New York man, Kenneth 'Carlos' Ortega, after he allegedly fired a gun in the air and then pointed it at the officers. The incident occurred on Saturday evening after police responded to a report of suspicious activity at a residence.

Why it matters

Police shootings are always a sensitive and controversial topic, raising questions about use of force, mental health, and community-police relations. This incident will likely prompt an investigation by the Maine Attorney General's Office to determine if the officer's actions were justified.

The details

According to Skowhegan Police Chief David Bucknam, officers encountered Ortega and a woman walking away from the residence and commanded them to stop. Ortega allegedly refused to comply, fired a gun in the air, and then pointed the gun towards the officers. At that point, Officer Benaiah Willhoite shot Ortega, who later died from his injuries at a local hospital. Willhoite has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol for an officer involved in a deadly force incident.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, February 8, 2026 at around 6:33 p.m.

The players

Kenneth 'Carlos' Ortega

A 30-year-old man from New York who was shot and killed by police in Skowhegan.

Officer Benaiah Willhoite

A Skowhegan police officer who shot and killed Ortega after he allegedly pointed a gun at the officers.

David Bucknam

The Skowhegan Police Chief who provided details about the incident.

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What they’re saying

“'Officer Benaiah Willhoite shot Mr. Ortega as he pointed the gun in the direction of the officers.'”

— David Bucknam, Skowhegan Police Chief (centralmaine.com)

What’s next

The Office of the Maine Attorney General will investigate the shooting to determine if the officer's use of deadly force was justified.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges and controversies surrounding police use of force, particularly in situations involving mental health crises or confrontations with armed individuals. The investigation by the Maine Attorney General's Office will aim to provide clarity and accountability around the officers' actions.