LONDONDERRY – Police have arrested a Manchester firefighter on a stalking charge after allegedly finding him near the home of a man he was angry over a domestic situation.

Police learned Wednesday that Michael Lescatre, 44, of Goffstown, had allegedly told a man who lives on South Road that he wanted to "rip his head off" and that he may have a gun on him, according to a police affidavit.

Manchester fire Chief James Burkush said he expects to make a decision on Lescatre's employment status today.

"We're still gathering the reports and gathering the facts," Burkush said last night. "There are a lot of facts that need to be gathered before you make a decision."

Lescatre drove by officers while they were looking for him in the area, police said. He stopped for them before any emergency lights were activated.

"At this point, Michael exited his vehicle with a firearm in his right hand," Officer Keith Padellaro wrote in an affidavit. "He immediately threw the firearm on the ground and a felony stop was performed."

The pistol had a full magazine in it, but did not have a round in the chamber, the affidavit says. Police found a second ammunition magazine on his front seat. They also found a 12-pack of beer with two beers missing on the front seat, according to the affidavit.

Police charged Lescatre with stalking and improperly transporting alcohol beverages. They held him overnight on $10,000 cash bail pending his arraignment, after which he was released on $10,000 bail with a May 5 trial date.

Burkush said Lescatre holds the rank of firefighter and works out of the South Main Street station. He has been with the department for 15 years.

Lescatre has had no previous problems and was on days off when arrested. He is next scheduled for work on Saturday.

Reproduced by the Goffstown Residents Association.