Woman charged in stabbing death of 75-year-old resident at Chestnut Street high rise

Police are investigating the circumstances that led to the death of a man found injured inside a Chestnut Street apartment. Photo/Jeffrey Hastings

UPDATE: Attorney General John M. Formella and Manchester Police Chief Allen D. Aldenberg announce that Carrie Drake, 54, has been arrested in connection with the death of Vernon Hayford, 75, in Manchester on March 3.

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 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.


CONCORD, NH – State authorities have joined in the investigation of the death of a man in Manchester after his body was found early Sunday.

Manchester police officers were dispatched to 259 Chestnut St. following a 911 call around 5 a.m. Upon entering the apartment they discovered an adult male inside with life-threatening injuries. He was taken to the hospital for treatment where he later died.

Although the investigation is in the early stages, there does not appear to be any threat to the general public in connection with this death. The NH Attorney General’s office is assisting with the investigation.

No further information was made available at this time.