Indictment of Robert Pavao for the Murder of Catherine Heppner

Concord, NH – Attorney General Gordon J. MacDonald announces that Robert Pavao (age 21), formerly of Berwick, Maine, has been indicted by the New Hampshire Multicounty Grand Jury in connection with the death of Catherine Heppner on February 9, 2020, in Stratham, New Hampshire.

Robert Pavao was indicted for one count of first degree murder for knowingly causing the death of Catherine Heppner by stabbing her before, after, and/or while engaged in the commission of, or while attempting to commit felonious sexual assault, and one count of second-degree murder for recklessly causing the death of Catherine Heppner under circumstances manifesting an extreme indifference to the value of human life by stabbing her.

Robert Pavao continues to be held without bail. The charges and allegations set forth in the indictments are merely accusations, and Robert Pavao is presumed innocent until proven guilty.