Man accused of killing sister held in jail until next court appearance June 17

A Thornton resident who allegedly shot and killed his sister waived a formal reading of his charges on Tuesday, and is due back in court for a probable cause hearing on Wednesday, June 17.

Logan Anderson, 18, was charged with second-degree murder, for allegedly knowingly shooting and causing the death of Leah Anderson, 21, on June 8. The offense carries a potential sentence of life in prison.

Thornton and Campton police responded to Mad River Road, in Thornton, at 8:20 a.m. on June 8, after receiving a 911 call. Officers found Leah Anderson at the house with a head wound. She was taken to an area hospital and died as a result of the injury.

Thornton Police shared information on social media that day about a shooting investigation on Upper Mad River Road, and wrote the Attorney General’s Office was involved. Uhlman Drive, and the intersection of Upper Mad River and Mad River roads, in Thornton, were closed as police investigated on June 8.

In a statement June 8, the Attorney General’s Office wrote they responded to a “shooting incident with serious bodily injury.” The State Police Major Crime Unit was also involved in the investigation. That night, the Attorney General’s Office sent a statement that Logan Anderson had been charged with second-degree murder.

Remembering Leah

Leah Anderson was a student at Plymouth State University, and a graduate of Plymouth Regional High School, class of 2023. She attended Campton Elementary School and Thornton Central School. Superintendent Kyla Welch sent a message to the Pemi-Baker Regional School District community, calling Leah Anderson's death a “heartbreaking loss.” She said Welch will be remembered for her “bright smile, kind heart, strong work ethic,” and positive impact.

“Leah had a true passion for working with children and was pursuing a degree in elementary education at Plymouth State University,” Welch wrote.

Welch said she remained closely connected to the school district by working with students in the Campton after school program.

“In that role, she continued to share her kindness, patience, and care with the children and families she worked with each day,” Welch stated. “The loss of a young member of our extended school community is felt deeply across our district, especially in Thornton and the surrounding communities where Leah made such a meaningful impact.

"During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Leah’s family, friends, coworkers, former classmates, students, and all who knew and loved her.”

At Plymouth State, Leah Anderson was a member of the class of 2027, and was studying elementary education and youth development.

The university extended its “deepest condolences” to family, friends, classmates, and professors who “knew and loved” Leah Anderson. Denis Panyik-Dale, director of communications for PSU, said on Tuesday resources are available for students, faculty, and staff as they grieve. An email was sent to the school community with available counseling resources.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available for anyone in crisis, and to share with anyone you know who is struggling. To speak with a trained listener, call 988. Visit 988lifeline.org for crisis chat services and more information.

In a prepared statement, President Donald L. Birx said those who knew Leah Anderson spoke of her kindness.

“Whether at Plymouth State or in the broader community, she was known for her caring nature, her warmth, and her ability to make others feel valued,” Birx said. “More than one person shared that Leah could brighten someone’s day without even realizing it simply because kindness came so naturally to her. That generosity of spirit is how many will remember her.”

The case

The Attorney General’s Office declined to comment further. Charging documents were not available at Plymouth District Court, where the hearing is scheduled.

“With our investigation active and ongoing we have no additional updates to provide at this time,” said Michael Garrity, spokesperson for the Attorney General’s Office.

Assistant Attorney General Bethany Durand is prosecuting the case, and requested Logan Anderson be held in Grafton County Jail without bail.

“Considering the charge against the defendant and the facts contained in the affidavit for his arrest, the State requests that this court hold the defendant without bail,” according to a motion signed by Durand and Senior Assistant Attorney General Joshua Speicher.

The motion stated the court found probable cause Logan Anderson's release would pose a danger to himself or the public. State law does not allow bail for anyone facing a charge that carries a life prison sentence.

The request Logan Anderson be held in jail was granted by Judge John Katsirebas Jr.

Logan Anderson is scheduled to appear in Plymouth District Court for a probable cause hearing at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17.ww