Woman stabbed to death in Littleton, NH hotel

LITTLETON, NH (WHDH) -- A 70-year-old woman was stabbed to death in a Littleton, N.H. hotel.

Dr. Catherine “Kitty” Houghton was found in the hotel lobby at about 9 p.m. Monday with multiple stab wounds to the neck and body. She was taken to the hospital where she was pronounced dead a short time later.

Police found and arrested 37-year-old Rodney Hill of West Danville, Vermont at the hotel. Hill was arraigned Tuesday and charged with second degree murder. Prosecutors say Houghton had no connection to Hill.

Houghton served as a trustee at the White Mountain School, located near Littleton, for the past three years.

Houghton, who lives in California and has a PhD from Stanford, was staying at the hotel while she was attending meetings at the White Mountain School in Bethlehem, New Hampshire.

Residents who live in the area are shocked.

“I’m shocked. My jaw hit the floor, I don’t know who either one of these people are but I work within walking distance. It’s scary -- could have happened here,” said Jessica Grenier, a resident.

A story on the school’s website said Houghton was also a pilot and volunteered her flying skills for non-profit organizations.

Students and staff on campus are stunned.

"Her school is eternally grateful for her support, her service, and the example she set for us. The world has lost a truly bright light," said Tim Breen, White Mountain School Headmaster

There has been no word on a possible motive. Hill is being held without bail as the investigation continues.