PEMBROKE, N.H. — A quiet New Hampshire town is reeling after the heartbreaking deaths of a 26-year-old woman and her 3-year-old son, discovered early Friday morning in what authorities are investigating as a possible murder-suicide.
The New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office confirmed the victims as Julia Byrne, 26, and her toddler son, Blake Byrne. Both were found with gunshot wounds inside their home on Pembroke Hill Road, a peaceful residential area that has now become the scene of an unthinkable tragedy.
Early Morning Discovery
Shortly after 1 a.m. on Friday, Pembroke police responded to a 911 call reporting the sound of two gunshots. When officers arrived at the residence at 336 Pembroke Hill Road, they spoke with the caller, who had heard the disturbing noises but had not witnessed the incident.
Inside the home, officers discovered Julia Byrne and her son Blake suffering from what prosecutors described as apparent gunshot wounds. Julia was declared dead at the scene. Blake, still alive but critically injured, was rushed to Concord Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The home, where both Julia and Blake lived, is now a focal point of an intensive investigation, as officials try to understand what led to the devastating incident.
Autopsy Results and Investigative Findings
According to preliminary autopsy findings released by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Blake Byrne died of a gunshot wound to the head and his death has been classified as a homicide.
Julia Byrne’s autopsy revealed she also died from a gunshot wound to the head, though officials stated her manner of death is still pending, awaiting further investigation and forensic evidence. However, law enforcement sources confirmed that the case is being treated as a possible murder-suicide.
Authorities have not indicated the presence of any additional suspects and have stated clearly that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
A Community in Mourning
News of the deaths has sent shockwaves through the small town of Pembroke, where residents are mourning the loss of two lives, including that of a young child.
“This is absolutely devastating,” said one neighbor, who asked not to be named. “Julia was a quiet, kind woman. We would see her walking with Blake outside sometimes. I just can’t imagine what happened.”
The Byrnes’ home, a modest single-family residence tucked along a tree-lined road, is now cordoned off with police tape. Investigators and crime scene technicians have been seen entering and leaving the home, collecting evidence and trying to piece together what led to the shooting.
A Search for Answers
Officials have released few details about Julia Byrne’s mental state, possible motives, or whether any firearms were recovered at the scene. The investigation remains active and ongoing, and authorities have asked anyone with information about the case to come forward.
Domestic violence experts note that tragic events like this, while rare, often stem from complex and deeply rooted issues, including untreated mental health struggles, isolation, or unresolved personal crises.
“This kind of case is incredibly difficult for the community and for law enforcement,” said a former New Hampshire state police officer familiar with similar investigations. “When a child is involved, it takes a deep emotional toll on everyone.”
Support for the Community
In the aftermath of the tragedy, local officials and crisis counselors are encouraging community members, especially those who knew the Byrnes, to seek support. The Pembroke School District and local counseling services are expected to provide resources for anyone impacted by the incident.
While the investigation continues, those closest to Julia and Blake are left with grief, unanswered questions, and the lingering pain of a tragedy that took two lives too soon.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text HOME to 741741 for 24/7 support.