Authorities say a 79-year-old Yoder man is behind bars after his wife was found shot to death inside their mobile home, a killing that neighbors say he effectively confessed to before deputies even arrived.
Deputies were called to the 100 block of Woodlake Run in the Woodlake Estates Mobile Home Park around 10:15 p.m. Friday, after a neighbor dialed 911 to report what had just unfolded, according to WPTA. Inside the trailer, officers found the woman bleeding from gunshot wounds to her head and torso and took her husband into custody. Court records state that when deputies arrived, he told them, “Just my dog and my dead wife.”
Suspect's admission
The husband, identified as 79-year-old James R. Chelf, told investigators he had argued with his wife while she was working on a project and admitted to shooting her, saying, “I just lost my mind” and “I just went nuts,” according to FOX5. He also apologized to officers, saying, “I’m sorry I did it,” and explained that he left the revolver on the dining room table.
Weapon and charges
Investigators found a black .38 Special Smith & Wesson revolver on the dining room table, loaded with three spent casings, two live rounds and one empty chamber, according to court documents. Chelf is now facing one count of murder and is being held without bond at the Allen County Jail. An initial court appearance is set for Wednesday, WPTA reports.
Victim and next steps
The Allen County coroner identified the victim as 77-year-old Sandra Sue Chelf, who died from gunshot wounds to her head and torso, according to FOX5. Investigators and prosecutors say they are still working to understand what led up to the shooting, and as of the latest reports, no motive has been released.
