Search intensifies for alleged murderer and arson suspect
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The search for fugitive Matthew Dion intensified Tuesday as the U.S. Marshals Service named him one of its 15 Most Wanted. Dion, 39, of Manchester, is wanted for second-degree murder, arson, and possession of child pornography.
On March 24, 2014, Manchester New Hampshire Fire Department personnel responded to a reported fire and subsequent explosion at the home of Robert and Constance Dion. After suppressing the fire and gaining entry into the residence, firefighters discovered the deceased bodies of the elderly couple in the basement of their home. Further evidence led investigators to determine the cause of the fire was arson, and the couple’s deaths were ruled homicides. The Dion’s son, Matthew, who was known to reside at the home with them, was missing from the scene. Evidence soon led authorities to believe he was their main suspect.
On Sept. 3, 2014, the Manchester Police Department charged Dion with two counts of second-degree murder and arson. These criminal charges were in addition to an April 4, 2014 child pornography charge Dion was facing. On Nov. 22, 2014, Dion was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution, allowing the Marshals to join the manhunt.
“Matthew Dion’s alleged crimes have made him the latest addition to our 15 Most Wanted list, which is reserved for those suspected of heinous crimes such as those Dion is accused of committing,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Stacia Hylton. “Our Deputy U.S. Marshals and federal and local partners are dedicated to his apprehension so that he may face justice.”
U.S. Marshal David Cargill, Jr., of the District of New Hampshire reiterated that commitment. “The Marshals Service is committed to assisting the Manchester Police Department in locating and apprehending Matthew Dion and ensuring he faces justice for these heinous crimes.”
Acknowledging the investigative work and man-hours already given to the case, Cargill said, “Extensive work has already been done on this case by the Manchester Police Department. As always, we remain dedicated to working with our law enforcement partners to track down and apprehend the most violent fugitives, and this case will be no different.”
Authorities believe Dion fled New Hampshire soon after the crimes, and may be in possession of a handgun. He is known to have ties to Georgia, but his whereabouts are currently unknown. Because of the nature of his crimes, and the possibility he may be carrying a weapon, he should be considered armed and dangerous.
Dion is a 5-foot-10 white male weighing 170 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. His unique physical characteristics include a small horizontal scar on his forehead and blacken teeth due to extensive tooth decay. He may be driving a stolen 2013 silver Hyundai Elantra, and is known to swap license plates to avoid detection by authorities. His interests include art museums, photography, music, and playing the piano. He is also fluent in French and has strong computer skills.
A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading directly to Dion’s arrest. Anyone with information is urged to contact the nearest U.S. Marshals office or the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102.
