Mother of Elijah Lewis indicted for first-degree murder and other crimes

    Authorities held a news conference Oct. 23, 2021, in Abington, Mass., to announce the discovery of a body believed to be that of Elijah Lewis, 5, of Merrimack. Photo/Jeffrey Hastings

    CONCORD, NH – Attorney General John M. Formella announces that Danielle Dauphinais, 35, has been indicted on multiple charges in connection with the murder of Elijah Lewis, 5, in Merrimack.

    Dauphinais/2020 photo via NHSP

    On April 15, 2022, the Hillsborough County Grand Jury – Southern District returned indictments charging Danielle Dauphinais with one count of first-degree murder for purposely causing the death of Elijah Lewis; one count of second-degree murder for causing the death of Elijah Lewis recklessly with extreme indifference to the value of human life; and three counts of tampering with witnesses.

    Danielle Dauphinais continues to be held without bail. An arraignment will be scheduled in Hillsborough County Superior Court – Southern District in Nashua.

    The charges and allegations set forth in the indictments are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.