Tragedy in Raynham: Authorities Investigate Apparent Murder-Suicide That Claimed Lives of Two Local Residents
Raynham, MA — August 9, 2025 — The close-knit town of Raynham is reeling this week after a harrowing incident left two residents dead in what authorities believe to be a tragic case of murder-suicide. The victims, 37-year-old Marie Hunt and 35-year-old Mark Henshaw, were discovered deceased from gunshot wounds inside a private residence on Sunday evening, in a case that has shaken the quiet suburban community to its core.
The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office confirmed on Monday that local police responded to a welfare check at a home on Locust Street around 6:45 p.m. after concerned family members had been unable to contact either individual for over a day. Upon arrival, officers forced entry into the residence and discovered both Marie and Mark with fatal gunshot wounds in what authorities described as a domestic violence-related incident.
Details of the Investigation
According to preliminary findings, Marie Hunt is believed to have been the victim of a fatal shooting before Mark Henshaw turned the weapon on himself. A firearm was recovered at the scene, and investigators have ruled out the involvement of any third parties. Autopsies conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner have confirmed the cause of death in both individuals to be from gunshot wounds.
While police have not disclosed the nature of the relationship between the two victims in detail, family members and neighbors have confirmed that Hunt and Henshaw had been romantically involved for several years, with a reportedly tumultuous relationship that had experienced periods of separation and reconciliation. There is currently no record of prior police calls or restraining orders involving the pair at the Raynham address.
“This appears to be an isolated domestic tragedy with no ongoing threat to the public,” said Raynham Police Chief James Donovan during a press briefing. “Our hearts go out to the families affected, and we are doing everything we can to support them during this unimaginable time.”
A Community in Mourning
Marie Hunt, a mother of two, was known for her warmth, resilience, and commitment to her children. A lifelong resident of the South Shore area, Marie worked as a medical assistant at a local health clinic and was described by coworkers as compassionate and deeply dedicated to her patients.
“She was one of the brightest lights in the room,” said longtime friend and colleague Angela Medeiros. “Marie cared deeply — about her family, her friends, her work. This loss is beyond words.”
Mark Henshaw, originally from Rhode Island, had been living in Massachusetts for several years and was employed in the construction industry. While those who knew him say he could be charming and hardworking, some close to the couple acknowledged signs of strain in the relationship over the past year, though few anticipated the devastating outcome.
Neighbors expressed shock and sorrow at the news, describing the incident as utterly uncharacteristic of the otherwise peaceful neighborhood.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said one neighbor, who declined to be identified. “You never think something like this could happen right next door. We’re all just stunned.”
Remembering Marie Hunt
In the wake of the tragedy, attention has turned to honoring the memory of Marie Hunt and supporting the two children she leaves behind — both under the age of 12. Family and friends have launched a memorial fund to assist with funeral costs and long-term care for her children, who are now in the custody of extended family members.
“Marie was a loving mother before anything else,” said her sister, Danielle Hunt. “Everything she did, she did for her kids. She didn’t deserve this. We’re grieving the loss of our sister, our friend, and trying to pick up the pieces.”
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Saturday evening at the Raynham Town Green, where community members will gather to mourn, offer prayers, and call attention to the growing issue of domestic violence, which continues to claim lives across the country.
A Call for Awareness
Advocates and local officials are urging the public to use this moment as a call to action on behalf of those living in silent suffering due to domestic abuse. Even in the absence of visible warning signs, emotional, psychological, or escalating tensions in relationships can precede tragedy.
“There are often invisible signs of domestic violence — fear, isolation, threats,” said Susan Delgado, director of a nearby domestic violence resource center. “We need to be more vigilant, more supportive, and ensure that people know help is available.”
Moving Forward
Funeral services for Marie Hunt are being planned by her family and will be held privately. A public memorial will be announced in the coming days. Mark Henshaw’s family has requested privacy during their time of grief and has not yet released funeral information.
As the Raynham community continues to process the tragedy, local mental health professionals are offering counseling and support services for anyone impacted by the event. Town officials have urged residents to look after one another and reach out if they are in need.
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