In the late summer of 2019, the community of Laconia, New Hampshire, was struck by the sudden death of Richard J. Bassett Jr., a 60-year-old Caucasian male. On September 8, 2019, Bassett's life came to a tragic end at the Laconia police station. Reports indicate that Richard J. Bassett Jr. fatally shot himself at the very place where his son was employed as a police officer.
Richard, known to his loved ones as Rick, was a resident of Meredith.
His obituary paints a picture of a man who cherished his family, especially his role as "Grampy." He had a passion for the open road and took every opportunity to ride his Harley. His passing left behind his wife, Janet Bassett, a son, R.J. Bassett III, and two daughters, Bridget Stevens and Julie Stoia, along with numerous other family members and friends.
In the wake of his death, there was no indication of foul play from the online sources available. Consequently, there were no reports of any arrests made or suspects sought in connection with the incident. The narrative that emerges from the available information is one of a personal tragedy that unfolded in a public space, leaving a family to mourn their loss. A "Celebration of Life" was held on September 15, 2019, at the Beane Conference Center in Laconia, for friends and family to gather and remember him.
