Reading Massachusetts Police Department

10/22/2026

Reading Police, Austin Preparatory Provide Update on Investigation Into Concerning Social Media Video, Continue Increased Presence at School

READING — The Reading Police Department and Austin Preparatory School are
providing an update on the investigation into a social media video containing non- specific threats posted by an individual who previously worked at the school. Detectives spoke directly with the individual Wednesday evening, and police served him with a no-trespass order prohibiting him from entering school property.

As a precaution, additional officers will be present again at Austin Prep on Thursday, Oct. 22. Based on the thorough investigation to date, police have identified no immediate or credible threat to students or staff. Police and school officials will continue to assess the situation and determine whether any additional safety measures are warranted.

From the outset, Reading Police took the video extremely seriously and launched an immediate investigation. Police worked with school administrators and other law enforcement agencies to investigate the statements and assess any potential safety concerns.

As part of that investigative work, Reading Police:

-Located the individual and spoke with him directly Wednesday evening.
-Reviewed the video to assess its content and whether it provided a basis for criminal charges.
-Consulted with the Woburn District Court clerk magistrate's office about the facts and whether criminal charges were supported.
-Communicated with the FBI and shared the Department's findings.
-Shared information through the Massachusetts Detective Network and notified law enforcement in the community where the individual is staying.

Police reviewed the video and did not identify a specific threat directed at Austin Prep or a particular person. After reviewing the available facts with the Woburn District Court clerk magistrate’s office, Reading Police have not identified a basis for criminal charges at this time. Police have, however, served the individual with a no- trespass order prohibiting him from entering Austin Prep property.

"We understand why this video has caused concern for students, families and staff. We take all threats and safety concerns extremely seriously and conducted a thorough investigation into this matter," said Deputy Chief Christine Amendola. "Based on what we have learned and all information gathered during the investigation, we believe the school and students are safe and have identified no
immediate or credible threat to the school community.”

"We also understand questions surrounding why an arrest has not been made. An arrest requires a legal basis supported by the facts. Based on our investigation and consultation with the district court, we do not have that basis at this time. We have, however, served the individual with a no-trespass order prohibiting him from entering Austin Prep property at any time in the future, and additional officers are at the school as a precaution."

Reading Police and Austin Prep Leadership remain in close contact about school safety and the police response. The Department and school will provide further updates as appropriate.

“We are thankful for our strong working partnership with the Reading Police Department and its swift, thorough and professional response,” said Dr. James Hickey, Head of Austin Prep. “The safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff are our highest priority. We appreciate the continued presence of law enforcement on campus and the additional measures being taken to support a safe and secure learning environment.”

This remains an active investigation. Anyone with new information relevant to this matter should contact Reading Police at 781-944-1212, or call 911 to report an emergency or an immediate threat.

10/21/2026

RAD Night 1: In the Books!

Last night marked the first night of our Reading Police Department’s RAD (R**e Aggression Defense) program!

Participants learned the fundamentals of self-defense and began building a strong foundation for the sessions ahead. It was a great first night with an awesome group!

We’re looking forward to building on this momentum as participants continue developing their skills, confidence, and personal safety awareness throughout the program.

Great work, everyone! We’ll see you at Night 2!

10/21/2026

The Reading Police Department is aware of a video posted online by a former Austin Preparatory School employee that includes non-specific threats. The Department takes these statements very seriously and is investigating.

Reading Police will have an increased presence at Austin Preparatory School and Reading Public Schools.

At this time, police have identified no immediate or credible threat to the safety of students or staff. Reading Police remain in close contact with school administrators as the investigation continues.

10/14/2026

***Update: Bernese dog has been reunited with his owners***

Male Bernese mountain dog found on Juniper Circle. Please contact us at 781-944-1212 if you recognize this dog.

10/14/2026

The Reading Police Department arrested a man Sunday afternoon in connection with a theft at a local pharmacy that left an employee and a police officer with minor injuries.

KAI BLACKMON, 19, of READING, was arrested and charged with the following:
• Breaking into a Depository
• Shoplifting by Asportation
• Assault and Battery on a Police Officer
• Assault and Battery
• Resisting Arrest
• Disorderly Conduct
• Destruction of Property Under $1,200

On Sunday, Oct. 11, at approximately 4:58 p.m., Reading Police were dispatched to a pharmacy at 650 Main St. for a reported robbery in progress.

Upon arrival, officers entered the pharmacy and encountered a man, later identified as BLACKMON, who attempted to flee from responding officers and resisted arrest.

During a struggle, after repeated commands and warnings, an officer used a Taser. After the first attempt to stun BLACKMON was ineffective, officers had to stun him a second time, and BLACKMON was then placed under arrest without further incident.

One officer suffered a minor injury, and store shelving and merchandise were damaged. The officer was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and later released.

The investigation revealed that BLACKMON forced his way into the employee-only area behind the pharmacy counter, shoved an employee and stole two boxes of medication. The employee suffered a minor hand injury and declined medical treatment.

BLACKMON was arraigned on Tuesday in Woburn District Court.

10/13/2026

In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, we invite our community to come together for a vigil in honor of the victim, Andria Hanafin. Let us stand united in remembrance, offer comfort to those grieving, and show that no one in our community stands alone.

In light of the loss of our neighbor, Andria Hanafin, we invite the Reading community to a candlelight vigil to honor and remember a life taken too soon.

Even in the darkest moments, we stand together as a community. Please join us on Wednesday, October 14 at 6pm at Memorial Park.

10/09/2026

Arrest Warrant for Murder Issued

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Reading Police Chief David J. Clark have confirmed that an arrest warrant for murder has issued for 22 year-old Ryan Hanafin of Reading for the death of 49 year-old Andria Hanafin. On October 8, at approximately 12:38 a.m. Reading Police received a 911 call that the body of a 49 year old female had been located inside a Center Avenue home. When police arrived, they located the victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead on scene.
Police determined that Hanafin was not in the home and that he had allegedly fled in a 2010 black Dodge Charger. Investigators attempted to located Hanafin but were not immediately successful. Law enforcement and members of the public were asked to be on the lookout. Hanafin was located in Vermont later that day. He is currently awaiting pick up at a correctional facility in Vermont to return to Massachusetts for arraignment at the Woburn District Court on a future date.
This case is being investigated by the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, the Massachusetts State Police Detectives assigned to the District Attorney’s Office and the Reading Police. The prosecutor assigned to this case is Carrie Spiros. The victim witness advocate is Arianne Dubina.

10/08/2026

‼️‼️‼️UPDATE‼️‼️‼️

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Reading Police Chief David J. Clark have confirmed that Ryan Hanafin has been located and taken into custody by Vermont State Police. There is no further risk to public safety. More information to follow regarding apprehension and any court appearances.

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Investigators Seeking Unaccounted for Individual Following Death Investigation on Center Avenue

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Reading Police Chief David J. Clark have confirmed the investigation into an apparent homicide in Reading.

At approximately 12:38 a.m. Reading Police received a 911 call that the body of a 49 year old female had been located inside a Center Avenue home. When police arrived on scene they located the victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead on scene.

A member of the household, a 22-year-old male named Ryan Hanafin , is unaccounted for at this time. The vehicle owned by the 22 year old male resident is also unaccounted for.
This is an open investigation being conducted by the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, Reading Police and the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.

Law enforcement is actively looking for Ryan Hanafin who is believed to be operating a 2010 black Dodge Charger with license plate 2PSY15. Ryan is approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall.

Any member of the public who sees either Ryan or the vehicle is asked not to approach and to instead immediately call 911.

10/03/2026

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

The Reading Police Department is proud to be participating in the Domestic Violence Awareness patch fundraiser in observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, recognized each October, aims to raise awareness for domestic abuse and help victims receive proper support. In partnership with the Domestic Violence Awareness Project (DVAP), the National Domestic Violence Hotline’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month theme for 2025 is 'With Survivors, Always.'

Purple domestic violence awareness patches will be available for $10 to members of the public. All proceeds will go to RESPOND Inc., a domestic violence prevention agency based in Somerville.

To purchase a commemorative patch, checks may be made out to RESPOND Inc. and sent to the Reading Police Department, 15 Union St., Reading, MA 01867 (attn: Community Service Officer DaLonn Pearson). Those requesting patches should also include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

For questions about how to purchase a patch, contact Officer DaLonn Pearson [email protected]

About RESPOND Inc.
RESPOND Inc. is New England’s first domestic violence prevention agency and the second in the nation. For over 45 years, RESPOND has provided life-saving shelter, a crisis hotline, support services, training, and education to more than 100,000 members of the community. Their services are free, confidential, and available to all survivors of domestic abuse, regardless of age or gender.

The Reading Police Department is proud to work closely with RESPOND and our dedicated liaison, Tara McElroy, who works within the Police Department to provide support and follow-up care to survivors and victims of domestic violence.

Tara helps connect Reading residents with resources, victim advocacy, safety planning, and ongoing support when needed. Her role provides an important connection between law enforcement and the services available to individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

We understand that reaching out for help can be difficult. Survivors and victims do not have to navigate this process alone. Through our partnership with RESPOND, we are committed to making sure members of our community have access to support, resources, and advocacy.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. You are not alone.

For more information about RESPOND, visit (https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/tprZCyp4zAI39oEHNtm0sxbkKV?domain=respondinc.org).