Cops: TV weatherman who killed self was suspect in rape case

The accuser told police she’d gone to Sunday River in Newry to attend Springfest. She said she’d been drinking before she decided to take a nap and then awoke to find the 46-year-old Johnston in bed with her, according to an affidavit. Police said she didn’t know Johnston before the attack but recognized him as the popular meteorologist from WCSH-TV in Portland.

Oxford County Sheriff Wayne Gallant told reporters on Thursday that he thinks Johnston was aware that he was a suspect in the sexual assault because people at the Newry home confronted Johnston, who hastily dressed, ran outside and drove away.

Brian Cliffe, president and general manager of WCSH-TV, said the revelation was disturbing.

“We share in the community’s shock and our thoughts are with the victim and the families involved,” Cliffe said in a statement posted online.

Police say Johnston was seen after the assault in a restaurant in Newry, where he had some food and performed a weather skit for patrons.

Later, he bought some razor blades at a convenience store and sent his girlfriend a few text messages, including one of hands clasped in prayer, police said.

Police say the investigation is now closed.

The Associated Press

by Canadian Press

Cops: TV weatherman who killed self was suspect in rape case

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