KEENE, N.H. — Authorities have identified two residents who were found dead inside their home Tuesday in Keene, as investigators released new details surrounding the tragic incident.
According to the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office, autopsies confirmed that 70-year-old Donna Fairbanks and her 72-year-old husband, Chandler Fairbanks, both died from gunshot wounds.
Investigators said preliminary findings indicate that on June 16, inside their residence on Hurricane Road, Chandler Fairbanks allegedly shot and killed his wife, Donna Fairbanks, before turning the weapon on himself.
The couple was discovered late Tuesday morning after officers with the Keene Police Department responded to the home at 381 Hurricane Road to conduct a welfare check. Upon arriving, officers located both individuals deceased inside the residence.
Officials stated that no additional details surrounding the circumstances of the incident have been released at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.
News of Donna Fairbanks’ death has been especially heartbreaking for many throughout the community, where she was widely known for her long and respected career as an educator. Donna served for decades as a teacher at Keene Middle School after joining the school staff in 1980, teaching several subjects including mathematics.
Throughout her career, she earned recognition for her dedication to education. She was named one of five finalists for New Hampshire Teacher of the Year in 2008 and later received an Exceptional Teacher Award in 2016 from the Keene Board of Education for her years of service and impact on students.
The tragic loss has left many in shock as friends, former students, colleagues, and community members remember Donna for her commitment to education and the lasting influence she had on generations of students.
Authorities say the investigation remains active.
