Huge new update in mystery death of retired couple who vanished from their home before being found dead on hiking trail

A SKETCH of a man cops want to speak to after a retired couple were mysteriously found dead on a hiking trail has been released in a major investigation update.

The bodies of Stephen Reid, 67 and Djeswende Reid, 66, were discovered near their home in Concord, New Hampshire after they vanished.

They were last seen alive on April 18 when they left their home in the Alton Woods apartment complex before going on a walk in the Broken Ground Trails area.

Panicked family members raised the alarm two days later when the pair failed to show up to a planned event.

On April 21, their bodies were discovered covered in "multiple" gunshot wounds, and autopsies ruled that both deaths were homicides.

Authorities have now revealed a person of interest is being hunted in connection with their deaths.

Investigators want to speak to a man last seen in Concord on April 18 close to where the bodies were found, The New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella and Concord Chief of Police Bradley Osgood said in a joint statement.

He is described as a white male in his late 20s or early 30s, about 5ft10, of a medium build, with short brown hair and clean shaven.

The man was last seen wearing a dark blue jacket, possibly with a hood, khaki pants and carrying a black backpack.

Authorities released a sketch of the man in question, while announcing the reward for information leading to an arrest and indictment of the killer has been raised to $35,000.

The FBI is assisting the investigation after cops warned locals in in Concord to "stay vigilant".

Stephen and Djeswende had disappeared after visiting family over the Easter weekend before being found shot dead in the woods.

The couple’s son, Brian Reid, told The Concord Monitor: "The bed was neatly made and a window was open.

"Both their phones are still in the apartment. My Dad’s wallet is also still in the apartment, and both their cars are here."

After the pair - who had retired to the area three years ago - failed to turn up for a family event, cops, troopers, and K-9 units scoured trails in the surrounding area.

Investigators say they found both of their cars parked in their usual spots at the apartment complex. 

Cops say anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of this individual they want to talk to should contact the Concord Police Department or the Concord Regional Crimeline.

They added that any suspicious behaviour or activity encountered should be reported to the Concord Police Department on 603-225-8600.

Tips can also be submitted on the Crimeline can be sent to TIP234 and CRIMES (274637).