Rockingham County Sheriff Dies After Brief Illness

(Brentwood, NH) -  Rockingham County Sheriff Michael Downing has passed away at the age of 60.Downing died early this morning after a brief illness.

Downing was first elected Sheriff in 2010. He had previously served in the NH House and State Senate. He is a former New Hampshire State Trooper and also served on the Salem Police Department.

Governor Maggie Hassan commented on the passing of Sheriff Downing,

“Sheriff Michael Downing epitomized what it means to be a public servant in the Granite State. As a veteran, state trooper, Salem police officer, state representative, state senator and Rockingham County Sheriff, Michael Downing dedicated his life to serving his fellow citizens. He will be profoundly missed by everyone in the Salem community and across the state, and his leadership, courage and character will continue to inspire us. I was proud to serve with him in the state Senate, and Tom and I are deeply saddened by his passing. We join Granite Staters everywhere in sending our thoughts and prayers to Sheriff Downing’s family and loved ones.”

Major Darren Melanson will serve as interim Sheriff until the County Delegation names someone to fill the vacancy left by the death of Downing.