John Kratz Arrested Following Re-Indictment in 2023 Derry Homicide

Concord, NH - Attorney General John M. Formella announces that a Rockingham County Grand Jury has returned indictments against John Kratz, age 31, of Candia, New Hampshire in connection with the shooting death of his uncle, John Kratz Jr., age 64, in Derry on May 17, 2023.

John Kratz has been re-indicted on one count of second-degree murder for knowingly causing the death of John Kratz, Jr. by shooting him in the head with a firearm, and one alternative count of second-degree murder for recklessly causing the death of John Kratz, Jr. under circumstances manifesting an extreme indifference to the value of human life by shooting him in the head with a firearm.

Previous charges against John Kratz for causing the death of John Kratz, Jr. were dismissed without prejudice in 2024 after a finding that he was then incompetent to stand trial.

The indictments were returned under seal on November 4, 2026, along with an arrest warrant.

Derry Police arrested John Kratz on November 10, 2026. The Rockingham County Superior Court conducted an arraignment of Mr. Kratz on November 12, 2026, at which time the indictments were unsealed. Mr. Kratz is currently being held without bail.

The charges and allegations against John Kratz are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.