Suspect shot by police in Beverly dies

Authorities identified the man Sunday as Christopher Whitmarsh.

According to investigators, a suicidal 49-year-old man from Hamilton hit four cars, including two police cruisers, with his vehicle.

When police arrived, the man backed a GMC Envoy into a Toyota Highlander twice.

Kimball-Monahan said the two officers were taken to Beverly Hospital to be evaluated.

A witness told 7News that a police officer in the cruiser behind the one getting hit drew their gun and opened fire on the man in the SUV. Blodgett confirmed Whitmarsh was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Police say he knew one of the passengers inside the vehicle he was ramming.

Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett said he can’t say whether this was a domestic violence case, and that the man’s motive remains unclear.

Police said the call came from a person who was inside a vehicle being rammed by the suspect.

She said her mother was shaken up by the incident, but not hurt.

State police and Essex District Attorney are investigating the incident.

Beverly Police Chief John LeLacheur said the shooter, a senior officer, will be on administrative leave throughout the investigation.

Balch Street was closed to traffic Saturday throughout the evening while authorities were still at the scene.