BELCHERTOWN — An award-winning chef at the University of Massachusetts Amherst appeared in Eastern Hampshire District Court Thursday, accused of beating his wife to death at Hotel UMass Wednesday night.
Jeffrey C. MacDonald, 36, of Wilbraham, pleaded not guilty to the charge during a brief proceeding. Courts records list the victim as Emma MacDonald.
Jeffrey MacDonald also was charged with assault and battery on a police officer.
“Upon the arrival of police officers, a violent struggle took place between them and a male,” a narrative says.
According to the statement, Jeffrey MacDonald threw objects at officers and hit one in the face.
Police had just finished putting a lock on the door of Room 413 at Hotel UMass on Thursday morning, after police responded to a call on Wednesday night. Jeffrey C. MacDonald, 36, is accused of beating his wife to death. (Douglas Hook / The Republican)Douglas Hook
“Upon entering Room 413, officers located a deceased female,” the report adds. “Given the nature of the female’s significant injuries, it seemed apparent to officers that her injuries resulted from a violent assault,” the narrative says.
According to police, Jeffrey MacDonald admitted to beating his wife with hands, feet and other blunt objects.
He was held without the right to bail. His next court date is scheduled for May 22.
Last year, MacDonald was named Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation (ACF), one of the top honors in the culinary industry.
The Hotel UMass on Thursday. (Douglas Hook / The Republican)Douglas Hook
