Man Awaiting Verdict on Rape Charges Shoots Himself at Rockingham County Courthouse

Updated, 7:34 p.m. WMUR-TV is reporting that Goodwin has died, according to authorities.

Updated, 4:11 p.m. on April 24, 2015 The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office released the following statement:

The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an incident that occurred at Superior Court in Brentwood and appears to be a self inflicted gun shot. The investigation is ongoing and there were no other people injured. This incident does not pose a threat to the public. The individual has been transferred to a medical facility in Massachusetts. There will be no further release of information at this time.

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A 75-year-old man awaiting the verdict in his rape case shot himself at the Rockingham County Courthouse Friday morning.

John Goodwin was alive when he was transported to a local hospital; his injuries were described as life-threatening, according to WMUR.

Goodwin, of Atkinson, is accused of raping one of his male piano students, according to WMUR. He reportedly shot himself while the jury was deliberating. A witness said the shooting happened near some bushes in front of the courthouse, the Union Leader reported.