South Berwick man told police he accidentally shot and killed girlfriend

A South Berwick man, Jeremiah Godfrey, has been charged with murder following the death of his girlfriend, Sherri Sweet, from a gunshot wound. Court documents reveal that Godfrey, 43, described the incident as a tragic "bad mishap" during a dispute between the couple. He is currently held without bail at York County Jail and had his initial court appearance but has not yet entered a plea.

The affidavit for Godfrey's arrest indicates that he admitted to firing a single shot that fatally struck Sweet in the back of her head. The shooting occurred after the couple had an argument in their home, prompting Godfrey to retrieve his Glock pistol for protection against local wildlife. He intended to leave the residence for an outbuilding when the incident unfolded.

According to Godfrey’s account, he did not point the weapon at Sweet when she unexpectedly turned to grab it as she descended the stairs. He stated that his finger was on the trigger when the gun discharged, labeling the event a mistake during the struggle for the firearm. His attorney has not commented on the case.

When responding officers arrived, they discovered a young child in the home and subsequently arranged for a family member to care for the child. Sweet was transported to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries the following day. The autopsy later confirmed her death as a homicide.

Godfrey was arrested by state police several days later after obtaining a warrant, although the reasons for the delay in arrest remain unclear. The investigation continues, with authorities not providing additional information at this time.