Maine Murder Suspect Arrested After Multi-State Chase

Photo by David Wilson / Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 (CC BY 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons

A Maine man suspected in the killing of his girlfriend was arrested Jan. 17, 2026, after a dangerous high-speed chase that crossed multiple state lines and ended with a crash in New Hampshire. Authorities said the pursuit put motorists at risk and required coordination among several law enforcement agencies.

The suspect, identified by police as 55-year-old Dane Burke, was taken into custody after his vehicle crashed in Dunbarton, New Hampshire. Officers confirmed no law enforcement personnel were injured during the arrest.

Burke is now facing a murder charge related to his girlfriend’s death, along with additional charges connected to the interstate pursuit.

Homicide Investigation in Maine

Investigators say Burke was wanted in connection with the death of his girlfriend, Nicole Jackson, whose killing was ruled a homicide by medical examiners. Authorities have not released detailed information about how she died, citing the ongoing investigation.

Police said the case began as a domestic homicide investigation in Maine, where Jackson was found dead. Once Burke became a suspect, a search was launched to locate him and prevent further danger to the public.

Officials emphasized that Burke has not been convicted and is presumed innocent. Prosecutors are expected to outline the evidence against him as the case moves forward.

Pursuit Across Three States

Law enforcement officials said the pursuit began near Lowell, Massachusetts, after officers attempted to stop Burke’s vehicle. Instead of pulling over, police allege Burke fled at high speeds, prompting a chase that continued through Massachusetts and into New Hampshire.

Multiple agencies joined the pursuit as it crossed state lines, coordinating in real time to track the suspect and manage traffic conditions. Authorities said the chase posed a serious public safety risk due to speed and road conditions.

The pursuit came to an end in Dunbarton, New Hampshire, when Burke’s vehicle crashed. Police then moved in to take him into custody.

Arrest Without Serious Injuries

Following the crash, officers used non-lethal munitions to apprehend Burke, according to law enforcement statements. Authorities said the tactics were intended to safely resolve the situation and avoid further harm.

Police confirmed that no officers were seriously injured during the arrest and that Burke was taken into custody alive. He was transported for medical evaluation before being booked.

Officials described the arrest as the result of careful coordination among agencies, noting that such pursuits require split-second decisions to protect the public while apprehending a suspect.

Charges and Extradition Ahead

Burke is currently being held as authorities prepare to pursue murder charges related to Jackson’s death. Additional charges tied to the high-speed chase, including fleeing law enforcement and related offenses, are also expected.

Because the pursuit and arrest spanned multiple states, officials said extradition and jurisdictional issues will need to be addressed before the case proceeds in court. No court dates have been announced.

Prosecutors have not released details about Burke’s defense or whether he has legal representation. Authorities said more information will be provided as the case advances.

Public Safety and Broader Impact

The chase and arrest have drawn attention to the risks associated with high-speed pursuits and the challenges police face when suspects cross state lines. Law enforcement officials stressed that such operations are undertaken only when the threat to public safety is significant.

Community members expressed concern over the violence that led to the investigation and the danger posed during the chase. Advocates note that domestic homicide cases often leave families and communities struggling with unanswered questions and grief.

As the legal process unfolds, authorities reiterated that the focus remains on accountability and public safety. The arrest brought an end to a tense, multi-state search, but the investigation into Nicole Jackson’s death continues.

References: Hoodline: Maine Murder Suspect Arrested in New Hampshire After High-Speed Chase Across Three States | CBS News: Maine Murder Suspect New Hampshire Chase Massachusetts