A 73-year-old Monroe woman is in jail after deputies say they found her husband, Dennis Griffin, shot inside their home on Winding Way. Griffin was pronounced dead at the scene. Deputies arrested his wife, charged her with second-degree murder, and are holding her without bond. Investigators say she initially claimed the shooting was accidental before later offering a different account.
Scene and response
In a release, the Union County Sheriff's Office said deputies responded to the Winding Way address and found Griffin suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene, and officials said the investigation remains active. Deputies have not publicly discussed a possible motive and are asking anyone with information to contact investigators.
How investigators say the shooting unfolded
As reported by WCNC, the woman first told deputies the shooting was accidental. She later told investigators she retrieved a .38-caliber handgun and shot Griffin in the chest, according to the station. Deputies also say she attempted to hide evidence before they arrived. Those statements are part of an ongoing investigation that local detectives are still working through.
Charges and custody
The woman, identified in some records as Patty Griffin, 73, and named Peggy Griffin, 74, in a sheriff's release, has been charged with second-degree murder, county booking records show. She is being held without bond at the Union County Detention Center. Prosecutors will review the investigation and decide whether to pursue formal indictments or upgraded charges.
What’s next
Investigators say the probe is ongoing while detectives process evidence and interview witnesses, and the case will be forwarded to the district attorney for charging decisions, according to the Union County Sheriff's Office. Neighbors in the Winding Way area told reporters they were shocked by the killing and said authorities canvassed the block for video and tips. Anyone with information is being asked to call the Union County Sheriff's Office.
Legal note
A charge of second-degree murder alleges an unlawful killing without premeditation and carries serious penalties under state law. Booking and arraignment details will appear in local court filings as the case moves forward.
