Attorney General Formella Announces First Meeting of Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee

Concord, NH - Attorney General John M. Formella announces that the first meeting of the newly established New Hampshire Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee (DVFRC) will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the New Hampshire Department of Justice, 1 Granite Place South, in Concord. This initial session will be organizational only; no cases will be reviewed.

"Each year, domestic violence devastates families and communities across New Hampshire," said Attorney General Formella. "Every domestic violence related fatality is a tragedy that touches more than just those directly affected. This Committee is committed to examining these cases, identifying gaps in our systems, strengthening responses, and building the trust and collaboration needed to develop practical solutions that can save lives and prevent future tragedies."

The DVFRC was created by legislation signed into law by Governor Kelly A. Ayotte earlier this year. Its purpose is to conduct multidisciplinary, confidential reviews of domestic violence fatalities to identify gaps in services, systemic challenges, and opportunities for prevention. The Committee examines the complex circumstances surrounding domestic violence deaths and develops recommendations to improve law, policy, and practice statewide.

By law, the Committee's work is confidential. Cases under review will not be publicly confirmed, and recommendations will be non-identifying to protect privacy and encourage open participation. The deadly, heartbreaking Berlin, New Hampshire case of Marisol Fuentes stands as the sole exception, having been publicly referred for review by the Governor and confirmed for review by the Attorney General prior to the Committee's membership being in place and the beginning of the Committee's work. Going forward and after the Committee's work begins, all case reviews will remain confidential as required by law.

More information about the Office of Victim/Witness Assistance and other resources are available here: https://www.doj.nh.gov/criminal/victim-assistance/index.htm.