Autopsy: Mother And Toddler Died From Multiple Gunshot Wounds

FRANKLIN, NH — Investigators completed the autopsies Sunday of two adults and a child that died in a shooting incident on Saturday.

Fire, police, and EMS responded to Elkins Street for a report of a shooting. When they arrived, two people were found dead, and another was suffering from a gunshot wound.

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Jamie Bell, 42, was quickly identified as the shooter, and a manhunt ensued, bringing several law enforcement agencies to the area. After several hours Bell was found deceased near a river close to the scene where the initial incident occurred.

Attorney General John M. Formella, New Hampshire State Police Colonel Nathan A. Noyes, and Franklin Police Chief David B. Goldstein announced that autopsies were completed Sunday on Nicole Hughes, 35, and Ariella Bell (age 1 ½). Ms. Hughes’ and her daughter’s bodies were found in their residence at 124 Elkins St. in Franklin on Saturday. Additionally, an autopsy was conducted on the body of Bell, the suspect in the homicides of Nicole and Ariella. His body was found on the bank of the Merrimack River in Franklin in the area of River Street.

Deputy Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Mitchell Weinberg conducted the autopsies.

Weinberg determined the cause of Ms. Hughes’ death was multiple gunshot wounds and that the manner of her death was a homicide. He further determined the cause of Ariella’s death was multiple gunshot wounds and the manner of her death was a homicide. Weinberg determined that the cause of Bell’s death was a single, self-inflicted incised wound of the neck and the manner of his death was suicide.

The investigation into the homicides of Ms. Hughes and her daughter, Ariella, continues. It is believed, however, that Mr. Bell shot and killed them both before fleeing and eventually taking his own life. Further information will be provided if and when it becomes available.

In a message on Facebook, family members said, “We would like to give the community an opportunity to show their support & condolences to the Hughes Family in a way that also respects their space and grief. There will be a candlelight vigil to honor the lives of Nicole & Arielle.”

The vigil will be held on Tuesday at 8 p.m. at Bessie Rowell Baseball Field in Franklin. Some candles will be available at the vigil, but people are urged to bring their own if they can.