Concord, NH – Attorney General John M. Formella and Manchester Police Chief Allen D. Aldenberg announce that Carrie Drake (age 54) has been arrested in connection with the death of Vernon Hayford (age 75) in Manchester, New Hampshire this morning.

Ms. Drake is charged with one count of Second-Degree Murder, contrary to RSA 630:1-b, I(b), for recklessly causing the death of Vernon Hayford by stabbing him. She is also charged with being a felon in possession of a deadly weapon, contrary to RSA 159:3, and resisting arrest, contrary to RSA 642:2.

Ms. Drake is in custody and an arraignment is anticipated to be scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on Monday, March 4, 2024, in the Manchester Circuit Court. An autopsy is also scheduled to take place on Monday.

The charges against Ms. Drake are only allegations, and she is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.