It's been 30 years since the body of Hai Bo (Paul) Lei, a 26-year-old Boston resident, was found murdered along Hampstead Road in Salem, New Hampshire. The cold case, which unfolded on March 30, 1995, has remained unsolved despite the adoption of modern forensic techniques and collaborative efforts between multiple law enforcement agencies. According to a statement from the New Hampshire Attorney General's office, Lei was the victim of an execution-style killing, having been shot multiple times, bound, strangled, and his throat cut.
The initial investigation into Lei's death years ago suggested connections to illegal gambling or gang activities — factors that might have contributed to witnesses remaining silent due to fear of retaliation or legal repercussions. In a bid to refresh the investigation, the New Hampshire Cold Case Unit, along with the Salem Police Department and New Hampshire State Police, are reaching out to the public for any information. Their appeal is to those who may have kept quiet over the years, possibly out of concerns for their own safety or reputation.
As stated in the Attorney General John M. Formella's release onn the New Hampshire Attorney General's office website, "The passage of time does not erase the need for justice." The authorities are urging any individual with information, no matter how seemingly inconsequential, to come forward. They stress that anonymous tips are welcome and that every piece of information could be pivotal in cracking the case.
The call for public assistance is part of a renewed effort to bring closure to a case that has seen little progress over the past three decades. The Cold Case Unit is particularly interested in hearing from individuals who might've crossed paths with Lei or been privy to rumors or details following the crime. "We believe there are still people out there who know what happened to Paul," Formella said on New Hampshire Attorney General's office, underscoring the importance of community assistance in the search for answers.
Anyone with information about the murder of Hai Bo (Paul) Lei is urged to contact the New Hampshire Cold Case Unit tip line at (800) 525-5555 or via email at [email protected]. Authorities assure that submitting tips can be done anonymously.
