Chelmsford slay suspect arraigned in his hospital room

(Pool photo)

Jeffrey McGee, lying in hospital bed with his face covered, was arraigned, with Judge Steven Ostrach, far right, presiding. McGee was ordered held without bail.

By Sarah Schweitzer, Globe Staff

A 36-year-old Chelmsford man pleaded not guilty today to a first-degree murder charge in the slaying of his estranged wife.

Jeffrey McGee allegedly killed Christine Ayotte McGee, 31, on Tuesday in his apartment. He and the couple's 3-year-old son were later injured in a car crash in Methuen.

Thomas J. Ford, McGee's attorney, said he had no comment on the case, but added, "It seems like a tragic situation for everybody right now."

McGee was arraigned in his bed at Caritas Holy Family Hospital in Methuen.

Lowell District Court Judge Stephen Ostrach barred reporters from attending the arraignment, but allowed one newspaper photographer to attend.

Photographs showed McGee in a hospital gown with his face covered with a blanket. Only his bandaged arms were visible.

Corey Welford, Middlesex district attorney's spokesman, said McGee is in stable condition but declined to comment on the nature of his injuries. Welford said the couple's son is making "good progress" at an area hospital.

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