Portsmouth Couple James J. Moore, Stella N. Bolton Found Murdered in Rockhill Avenue Home
Portsmouth, NH – February 16, 1991 – A quiet residential neighborhood in Portsmouth was rocked on Saturday, February 16th, 1991, with the tragic discovery of James J. Moore and Stella N. Bolton, who were found murdered in their home at 74 Rockhill Avenue.
Police responded to the Rockhill Avenue address following an undisclosed report, where they made the grim discovery. The cause of death for the couple has not yet been released, and authorities have begun a full-scale homicide investigation.
Details surrounding the incident are scarce as law enforcement officials work to secure the scene and gather preliminary evidence. The Portsmouth Police Department, in collaboration with the New Hampshire State Police, has cordoned off the property, and forensic teams were seen entering and exiting the residence throughout the day.
“We can confirm that James J. Moore and Stella N. Bolton were found deceased in their home and that their deaths are being investigated as homicides,” a spokesperson for the Portsmouth Police Department stated, declining to release further details due to the active and sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation. “Our priority now is to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy and to bring those responsible to justice.”
The news has sent shockwaves through the close-knit Rockhill Avenue community, a typically peaceful area. Neighbors expressed disbelief and sorrow over the deaths of Mr. Moore and Ms. Bolton, though many were reluctant to speak extensively, citing shock and the early stage of the investigation.
Authorities have not yet released any information regarding potential suspects, motives, or the timeline of events leading up to the discovery of the couple. Investigators are expected to be on the scene for an extended period, conducting interviews and processing evidence.
The Portsmouth Police Department is appealing to the public for any information that might assist in the investigation. Anyone with knowledge pertaining to James J. Moore, Stella N. Bolton, or activities around 74 Rockhill Avenue in the past few days is urged to contact local police immediately.
