BREAKING: A New Hampshire man, Eric Sweeney, is set to plead guilty to second-degree murder charges for the fatal shootings of his sister-in-law and two young nephews. This urgent update comes as Sweeney, now 19, prepares for a court hearing on Friday at Merrimack County Superior Court.
In a shocking incident that occurred in August 2022, Sweeney is accused of killing Kassandra Sweeney, 25, and her two sons, 4-year-old Benjamin and 1-year-old Mason, while living with his older brother’s family in Northfield. Initially facing first-degree murder charges and a trial scheduled for next month, he will instead plead guilty to lesser charges.
This case has captured national attention due to the tragic loss of life and the circumstances surrounding the events. Prosecutors report that tensions had been escalating in the household due to Sweeney’s “increasing behavioral issues.” His older brother, Sean Sweeney, and his wife, who were serving as guardians, reportedly called police for assistance just before the tragic incident.
Court documents reveal a disturbing note left by Sweeney two months prior to the shooting. The note expressed feelings of not belonging and included a heartfelt, yet troubling, farewell: “I love you big bro and sis bye.” Such insights into Sweeney’s mental state have raised questions about his background and the family dynamics at play.
On the day of the shootings, Sweeney told police he was in his basement room when he heard a commotion upstairs. He described hearing a man’s deep voice and multiple “pops.” He then claimed he found his sister-in-law and nephews bleeding on the floor before fleeing the scene in Kassandra’s vehicle. He later called his brother, who promptly contacted law enforcement.
Prosecutors intended to present video footage recorded by Kassandra just ten minutes prior to the shooting. The clips show her children engaged in playful behavior, raising questions about the events leading up to the tragedy. Authorities noted that “in all three videos, the victims are exhibiting no distress or other visible or audible signs that would suggest that an unknown or unwelcome third-party was present in the house with them.”
As Sweeney prepares to accept a plea deal, he faces a potential life sentence when sentenced at a later date. His defense had considered an insanity plea, but the shift to a guilty plea suggests a different legal strategy may be at play.
This developing story highlights the profound human impact of violent crime and the ongoing struggles within families facing mental health and behavioral issues. The community and the nation watch closely as the legal proceedings unfold, with many seeking answers and justice for the tragic loss of life.
Stay tuned for more updates as this case progresses and further details emerge.