N.H. man sought in wife’s death

NASHUA, N.H. – A man police described as armed and dangerous was being sought after authorities discovered his wife had been shot and killed in the couple’s home early Sunday morning.

Police said Stephen Mann, 32, of Nashua last was seen driving away from his home in a black Ford Mustang early Sunday. The search was focused on Nashua and Somerville, Mass., where he has family.

Mann was still missing Monday afternoon. “We’ve received through the media many reports of possible sightings,” Assistant Attorney General David Ruoff said.

“Based on what we know at this time, he’s the [only] suspect,” Ruoff said.

Authorities issued a warrant for second-degree murder for Mann’s arrest.

Authorities said they were called to the home around 4:30 a.m. Sunday for a report of a person injured. When they arrived they found Kelly Mann, 34, dead from a gunshot wound to the head.

Ruoff would not say who placed the call or where it was made from.

Police said the couple’s three daughters, ages 12, 8 and 1, were home at the time, but were not harmed.

“They are safe. They were taken from the home and are staying in an undisclosed location,” Ruoff said. “I can tell you this, that the oldest, the 12-year-old, is handling a very difficult situation with an incredible amount of courage.”

Ruoff would not say whether an argument or physical struggle had preceded the shooting, or if a specific incident led to it. He did say police had been at the house a week ago for a domestic violence complaint, but didn’t elaborate.

Authorities would not comment on whether Stephen Mann had a criminal record, but said he should not have had a gun. Ruoff said the couple had been married about 10 years.

Stephen Mann is white, about 5 feet 9 inches tall, and weighs approximately 160 pounds. He has brown hair and eyes, a scar on his forehead and tattoos on his right calf, left forearm and upper right arm.

The car he was believed to be driving bears New Hampshire registration 126 0377.

Police urge anyone who sees him to use caution and call authorities at 594-3500.