Arrest Made Related to Death Investigation in Derry, New Hampshire

Concord, NH – Attorney General John M. Formella and Derry Police Chief George Feole announce the arrest of John Kratz, age 27, of Candia, New Hampshire, for the murder of John Kratz, Jr., age 64, of Sandown, New Hampshire.

At approximately 5:48 p.m. on May 17, 2023, Derry police officers responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting at the Lobster Claw II at 4 S. Main St. in Derry. Upon arrival, they found Mr. Kratz, Jr. suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Mr. Kratz, Jr. was transported to the Elliot Hospital in Manchester, where he was pronounced deceased. As a result of the investigation into the circumstances of Mr. Kratz, Jr.'s death, an arrest warrant was obtained charging Mr. Kratz with one charge of Second Degree Murder, RSA 630:1-b, I(a). Mr. Kratz is alleged to have knowingly caused the death of Mr. Kratz, Jr. by shooting him with a gun.

Mr. Kratz is expected to be arraigned on May 18, 2023, in the Rockingham County Superior Court, at a time to be determined.

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