The shooting occurred early Wednesday morning, June 25, 2025, in the Riverside Plaza parking lot on Winchester Street in Keene, N.H

• The shooting occurred early Wednesday morning, June 25, 2025, in the Riverside Plaza parking lot on Winchester Street in Keene, N.H.

• Victim identified: The victim was 17-year-old Christian Walker, a student from Orange, Massachusetts.

• Discovery and medical response: Responding to a 9‑1‑1 call, officers found Walker with a single apparent gunshot wound to the abdomen. He was briefly rushed to Cheshire Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 1:49 a.m.

• Medical examiner’s report: An autopsy by Dr. Abigail Alexander confirmed that the cause of death was a single gunshot wound to the abdomen, and the manner of death was officially ruled a homicide.

🔍 Investigation status

• Lead agency: The case is being led by the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office in collaboration with New Hampshire State Police and Keene Police.

• Persons of interest: Officials stated that “all parties involved have been identified.” As of now, there are no arrests, and there is no known ongoing threat to the general public.

• Community impact: The parking area was cordoned off as part of the investigation. Workers at surrounding businesses were advised not to speak about the case.

🏘️ Local reaction in Keene

• Shock and sadness: For many residents, this was the first instance of deadly violence in their town—a stark departure from the safety they expected. One local delivery driver remarked, “I’ve never seen this here… Crime scene tape surrounded a large part of the parking lot”

• Community on edge: The shooting has sent ripples of fear throughout what’s known as the “Elm City,” where crime is typically rare. Local businesses and residents are left grappling with the suddenness of the event.

🎓 Response in Orange, Massachusetts

• School involvement: Christian Walker, a student at Franklin County Technical School in nearby Orange, was honored by school officials. Principal Rick Martin implemented grief counseling services via Care Solace and a social worker.

• Support resources: Counselors will be present on Thursday, June 26, from 1–3 p.m. and again from 5–7 p.m. for students, staff, and families—demonstrating the school’s commitment to emotional support.

• Message from leadership: Superintendent Martin expressed sorrow, stating, “Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the students, family, friends and those impacted by a tragic and untimely death,” adding, “He was taken from us way too soon.”

🌆 About Keene, N.H.

• City snapshot: Keene, often called the “Elm City,” is the county seat of Cheshire County with around 23,000 residents. It hosts higher education institutions like Keene State College and Antioch University New England.

• Community identity: Known for its historic downtown and annual cultural events—like its famous pumpkin festival—Keene is generally perceived as a peaceful college town. The shooting marks a rare jolt to its sense of security.

🔜 Next steps in the case

1. Ongoing investigation: Authorities continue to follow leads, review evidence, and interview all involved individuals.

2. Updates pending: Any arrests, charges, or new findings will be released by the AG’s office when appropriate.

3. Public involvement: Officials urge anyone with additional information to contact the NH Attorney General’s Office or Keene Police.

💔 Community & family outlook

• Collective mourning: In both Keene and Orange, the emotional fallout is palpable. The victim’s home community is rallying to support his grieving family.

• Heightened safety awareness: The incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life—even in small towns—and is prompting a community-wide reevaluation of safety and preparedness.

📌 At a glance