New HampshireDepartment of JusticeOffice of the Attorney General

News Release

For Immediate Release
June 15, 2023

Contact:
Michael S. Garrity, Director of Communications
michael.s.garrity@doj.nh.gov | (603) 931-9375

Joshua L. Speicher, Assistant Attorney General
Joshua.L.Speicher@doj.nh.gov | (603) 271-3671

R. Christopher Knowles, Attorney
R.Christopher.Knowles@doj.nh.gov | (603) 271-3671

Arrest Made Related to Death Investigation in Manchester, New Hampshire

Concord, NH – Attorney General John M. Formella and Manchester Police Chief Allen D. Aldenberg announce the arrest of Robert Eastman, age 54, of Manchester, New Hampshire, for the murder of Laurie MacLellan, age 59, of Manchester, New Hampshire.

At approximately 1:54 a.m. on June 15, 2023, Manchester officers responded to 297 Hanover St to conduct a wellness check. Upon arrival, they found Ms. MacLellan, suffering from apparent stab wounds. First responders determined that Ms. MacLellan was deceased. As a result of the investigation into the circumstances of Ms. MacLellan's death, an arrest warrant was obtained charging Robert Eastman with one count of Second-Degree Murder, RSA 630:1-b, I(b). Mr. Eastman is alleged to have recklessly caused the death of Ms. MacLellan under circumstances manifesting an extreme indifference to the value of human life by stabbing her in the face and abdomen with a knife.

Mr. Eastman is expected to be arraigned on June 16, 2023, in the Hillsborough County Superior Court, Northern District, at a time to be determined.

The charges and allegations against Mr. Eastman are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

New Hampshire Department of Justice
1 Granite Place South | Concord, NH | 03301
Telephone: 603-271-3658