READFIELD, ME – A Maine man is facing a murder charge in connection with the alleged killing of his wife and is accused of assaulting his mother as authorities seek to evaluate his mental health.

The Maine State Police disclosed details about the incident that unfolded in the early morning hours of Feb. 19 in Readfield, a small, rural community. Responding to a 911 call, police arrived to find the lifeless body of 32-year-old Margeaux Whittemore in the driveway of a family home, and her mother-in-law Dorothy Whittemore, 67, critically injured inside.

The suspect, 34-year-old Sam Whittemore, was apprehended by state troopers following his alleged flight from the scene. According to police reports, his father was not home during the violence but returned shortly after the events transpired.

Dorothy Whittemore’s condition has improved since her hospitalization. Meanwhile, the state medical examiner conducted an autopsy on Margeaux Whittemore the day following the incident, ruling her death a homicide, though the exact cause remains undisclosed.

Sam Whittemore, who has a background in engineering and previously worked for SpaceX, had more recently turned his attention to coral reef restoration projects. His wife, Margeaux, shared her explorations through a popular Instagram account, although it had not been updated in recent months.

The couple was visiting Sam Whittemore’s parents at the time of the deadly encounter. Police have yet to provide a motive or further details about what may have led to the alleged attacks.

Upon his capture, Sam Whittemore was initially evaluated at a hospital before being transferred to the Kennebec County Jail, where he faces a murder charge and is held without bail. Court proceedings were initially scheduled for Feb. 21 but were postponed following his legal team’s request for a mental health assessment, citing concerns over his competency.

The court has ordered a comprehensive evaluation of Whittemore’s mental state before any subsequent hearings. Further details are pending as authorities continue to investigate this tragic event.