Carrabassett Valley Man Charged with Girlfriend's Murder

Affidavit details history of abuse and threats before shooting

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:26pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent bullet casing against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the violence and investigation of a domestic violence crime.A recent wave of domestic violence incidents in Maine has exposed the need for greater support and accountability around abusive relationships.Portland Today

Austin Doucette, 24, is accused of shooting and killing his girlfriend Makayla Rose DeSantis, 23, at their shared condominium in Carrabassett Valley, Maine on March 8. According to a police affidavit, Doucette had for weeks 'belittled' and demeaned DeSantis in text messages and threatened to hurt her before the fatal shooting, which he claims was an 'accident'.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence, with multiple witnesses reporting a history of emotional and physical abuse by Doucette towards DeSantis. It also raises questions about gun ownership and access, as police seized 26 firearms from the couple's home during the investigation.

The details

Police say Doucette shot DeSantis twice in the chest at their condominium. She later died at a Portland hospital while undergoing surgery. Witnesses reported that Doucette had 'grabbed DeSantis by the arm' within two weeks of the shooting and was 'verbally and emotionally abusive' towards her, often calling her demeaning names. Co-workers also said Doucette was 'not respectful' of DeSantis and wanted only his name on a car they had recently purchased together.

  • On Feb. 20, about two weeks before the shooting, Doucette told DeSantis not to come home that evening and if she did 'he would hurt her.'
  • On March 8, Doucette shot and killed DeSantis at their Carrabassett Valley condominium.

The players

Austin J. Doucette

A 24-year-old Carrabassett Valley man accused of shooting and killing his girlfriend, Makayla Rose DeSantis.

Makayla Rose DeSantis

A 23-year-old woman who was shot and killed by her boyfriend, Austin Doucette, at their shared condominium in Carrabassett Valley.

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What’s next

Doucette is being held without bail at the Franklin County Detention Center in Farmington until a hearing is set.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and action around domestic violence, including providing support services for victims, enforcing protective orders, and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.