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2 bodies recovered from site of fatal NH police shooting, explosion

BRENTWOOD, N.H. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Investigators say two bodies were recovered from the site of a fatal police shooting and house explosion in Brentwood, N.H.

Officials say while identification could take days, they believe the bodies belong to Officer Steve Arkell and 47-year-old Michael Nolan.

Arkell was responding to a 911 call at 46 Mill Pond Road just after 4 p.m. Monday when he was shot. A 911 caller claimed they could hear Nolan screaming and swearing at his 86-year-old father, Walter.

Investigators said Arkell asked Walter Nolan for permission to enter the home at 4:10 p.m. He was given permission to do so and then three volleys of gunfire could be heard.

Approximately four minutes later, a Fremont police officer arrived at the home. The officer tried to enter, but was repelled by gunfire. At 4:47, smoke was reported coming from the back of the residence. About an hour later, there was an explosion at the home.

Officer Arkell's remains were found in the back of the home. Investigators believe he died from multiple gunshot wounds prior to the fire starting. His death has been ruled a homicide.

A body, believed to be Nolan, was found in what used to be the garage of the home late Monday night. The state medical examiner performed an autopsy on the remains Tuesday, but the cause and manner of his death are undetermined pending further investigation.

New Hampshire Assistant Attorney General Jane Young said after being found handcuffed in the driveway, Walter Nolan was transported to the hospital. He has since been treated and released.

An investigation is ongoing. Some residents of the 55+ community remained displaced as the fire destroyed two units.