In the quiet, early morning hours of September 23, 2013, a tragic event shattered the peace of the small community of Oakfield, Maine. Inside their home on Oakfield-Smyrna Road, 49-year-old Heidi Pratt, a White female, and her partner, Michael Kitchen, 51, were fatally shot. The assailant, Matthew Davis, had entered their residence and, after shooting the couple, set the house on fire in an attempt to conceal the crime.
Neighbors were startled by the sound of multiple gunshots around 4:30 a.m., followed by the horrifying sight of the home engulfed in flames.
The investigation into the double homicide and arson led authorities to Matthew Davis of Houlton. Following the murders, Davis embarked on a crime spree, stealing Kitchen's truck and setting other fires. He was apprehended by police later that same morning in Island Falls after a manhunt. Davis was subsequently charged with two counts of murder, arson, theft, and aggravated criminal mischief.
Matthew Davis's trial was moved to Washington County after difficulties in seating an impartial jury in Aroostook County. During the trial, the prosecution presented a significant amount of evidence linking Davis to the crimes, although a clear motive was never definitively established. In December 2016, a jury found Matthew Davis guilty on all charges, including the murders of Heidi Pratt and Michael Kitchen. On February 10, 2017, he was sentenced to life in prison for the brutal slayings. The senseless act of violence left the community in mourning for the loss of the well-loved couple, who were remembered for their community involvement and love of life.
