The community is mourning the tragic death of Wichai Saksene, a 15-year-old Lowell High School freshman who was killed in a fatal shooting in Salem, New Hampshire. His death has left family members, classmates, teachers, and residents in deep grief as authorities continue an active investigation.
The case was confirmed by the Office of the New Hampshire Attorney General following an autopsy conducted by the Chief Medical Examiner. Officials determined that Wichai died from a single gunshot wound to the chest, and his manner of death was ruled a homicide.
According to investigators, Wichai was found outside a residence on Orchard Terrace in Salem after police responded to a 911 call during the early morning hours of June 19, 2026. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The investigation remains active and is being led by the Salem Police Department in coordination with the New Hampshire State Police Major Crimes Unit and the Attorney General’s Office. Authorities have stated that all known parties have been identified and that there is currently no known threat to the public.
Wichai was a student at Lowell High School, where his death has prompted widespread grief among students and staff. School officials confirmed that he previously attended Stoklosa Middle School and Lincoln Elementary School within the Lowell Public Schools system.
In response to the tragedy, Lowell Public Schools activated crisis response services to support students and staff. Counseling resources and support teams have been made available as the school community processes the loss of a young student whose life ended far too soon.
The news has deeply affected the city of Lowell, Massachusetts, where tributes continue to pour in from classmates, educators, and residents. Many have described him as a bright young student with promising potential and strong ties to his school community.
At just 15 years old, Wichai was in the early stages of his high school journey, building friendships and planning for the future. His sudden passing has left a profound void among those who knew him, as family and friends struggle to come to terms with the loss.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, gathering evidence and conducting interviews to determine exactly what led to the fatal incident. Officials have not released additional details as the case remains ongoing.
As both Salem and Lowell communities mourn, Wichai Saksene is being remembered for his life, his presence among friends and classmates, and the impact he had on those around him. His memory remains central to those grieving his loss as the investigation continues.