SWANZEY, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A Swanzey man is facing serious criminal charges over a violent incident that claimed the life of another resident last summer.

Wray Murdough, 60, has been indicted in connection with the June 2024 death of 38-year-old John Witfoth, who was found dead at a home in Swanzey following a 911 call. Authorities who responded to the scene on June 17, 2024, launched an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding Witfoth’s death.

An autopsy conducted by New Hampshire Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Jennie Duval determined that Witfoth died from complications of blunt head trauma. His death was ruled a homicide.

Following a nearly year-long investigation led by the New Hampshire State Police Major Crimes Unit and the Attorney General’s Office, a Cheshire County Grand Jury handed down indictments against Murdough on June 9, 2025. He was arrested two days later and is now being held without bail.

Prosecutors allege that Murdough struck Witfoth with a golf club, resulting in fatal injuries. He is facing charges of reckless second-degree murder—based on claims that his actions showed extreme indifference to human life—and first-degree assault, due to the use of a deadly weapon.

Murdough waived arraignment on June 12. A dispositional conference in the case has been scheduled for August 13 at Cheshire County Superior Court.

While the investigation has led to formal charges, officials emphasize that Murdough is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Further inquiries can be directed to the New Hampshire Department of Justice communications office.