New Hampshire teen faces second-degree murder charge over fatal shoot of his sister
Leah was found with a head wound inside a Thornton residence at around 8:20 a.m. on Monday
An 18-year-old New Hampshire man has been arrested and charged with the murder of his sister, a college student who was fatally shot on Monday.
Logan Anderson faces one count of second-degree murder in connection with the death of Leah Anderson, 21, according to a joint announcement by the New Hampshire Department of Justice and the Thornton New Hampshire Police Department. Authorities allege that Logan shot Leah, directly causing her death.
Leah was a student at Plymouth State University, where she was pursuing a degree in Elementary Education and Youth Development.
Scene of the shooting
Authorities had previously confirmed that Leah was found "with serious bodily injury" in the aftermath of the incident. In a subsequent update, the New Hampshire Department of Justice disclosed that emergency services responded to a 911 call and located Leah inside a residence on Upper Mad River Road in Thornton at approximately 8:20 a.m. on Monday, where she was found "suffering from a wound to her head." She was taken to hospital, where she later died.
Arraignment waived, held without bail
Logan's arraignment had been scheduled for Tuesday, 9 June. However, according to the Concord Monitor, citing a court spokesperson, he waived the hearing and a plea of not guilty was entered on his behalf. Logan is currently being held without bail. No possible motive for the shooting has been disclosed, and the investigation remains ongoing, the New Hampshire Department of Justice confirmed.
University pays tribute
Plymouth State University President Donald L. Birx paid tribute to Leah in a statement shared with PEOPLE, recalling the impression she had left on those around her.
"Those who knew Leah speak of a young woman whose kindness touched those around her," Birx said. "Whether at Plymouth State or in the broader community, she was known for her caring nature, her warmth, and her ability to make others feel valued.
"More than one person shared that Leah could brighten someone's day without even realizing it simply because kindness came so naturally to her. That generosity of spirit is how many will remember her."
"Our thoughts are with Leah's family, loved ones, and friends during this difficult time. Her loss is deeply felt across the Plymouth State community," Birx concluded.
