Ryan Hanafin taken into custody in Vermont after mother’s death in Reading, police say

The scene drew a large law enforcement response, with investigators seen carrying pet crates in and out of the residence.

Authorities say a Massachusetts man wanted in the death of his mother was arrested in Vermont on Thursday, ending a search that began after police found a woman dead inside a Reading home.

Vermont State Police took Ryan Hanafin, 22, into custody Thursday afternoon, according to the Middlesex District Attorney’s office and Reading police. Officials did not say where in Vermont the arrest happened.

The case began shortly after 12:38 a.m., when Matthew Hanafin called 911 from the family’s Center Avenue home and reported finding his wife, Andria Hanafin, 49, dead after returning home. Police said the couple’s 13-year-old son was in the house at the time, and their daughter was away at school.

Investigators believe Andria Hanafin was shot. Authorities also said Ryan Hanafin had a license to carry, which was suspended Thursday morning.

During the initial investigation, police said Matthew Hanafin told them he had been at work from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and that his younger son last saw his mother around 5 p.m., before leaving to spend time with friends. Police said the boy later came home at 9 p.m., went to his room, and did not see his mother again.

The scene drew a large law enforcement response, with investigators seen carrying pet crates in and out of the residence. At least three dozen pet carriers were also spotted in the front yard. Neighbors told reporters they believed Andria Hanafin had been fostering cats.

With Ryan Hanafin now in custody, police said there is no longer a threat to the public.