An award-winning chef employed by the University of Massachusetts Amherst has been charged with murder following the death of his wife at a campus hotel earlier this week. Jeffrey MacDonald, 36, of Wilbraham, entered a plea of not guilty during his arraignment on Thursday at Eastern Hampshire District Court. He faces one count of murder and one count of assault and battery on a police officer.
Incident at Hotel UMass
Police responded to a 911 call at Hotel UMass, located on the university's Amherst campus, at approximately 7:42 p.m. on Wednesday. According to the Northwestern District Attorney's Office, MacDonald allegedly became combative upon the arrival of officers, throwing objects that struck one UMass officer in the face. Upon entering Room 413, officers discovered a deceased female. Investigators noted that the woman's injuries were consistent with a violent assault.
Admission to Investigators
According to a report obtained by CBS News, MacDonald admitted to investigators that he had intentionally beaten his wife with his hands, feet, and other blunt objects, and that it was his intent to kill her. The victim, whose name has not been publicly released, was also an employee of UMass Amherst, according to the district attorney's office. Her cause of death has yet to be determined.
Background of the Accused
MacDonald was named Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation in the previous year. The Hotel UMass, where the incident occurred, is a 113-room facility that serves as a teaching hotel for students enrolled in the university's hospitality program.
University Response
In a message to the campus community, UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier Reyes stated that there is no ongoing threat to the campus. He acknowledged the distressing nature of the event and emphasized that support resources are available for those affected. The investigation is ongoing, involving the UMass Amherst Police, the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Northwestern District Attorney's Office, and the Massachusetts Crime Scene Services Section.
MacDonald is being held without bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 12.
