Shootings believed to be attempted murder/suicide

Investigation of the shooting of a married couple in Pickens, according to the county Sheriff’s Office, suggests an attempted murder of the 73-year old wife, followed by a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the 81-year old husband. The Sheriff’s Office announcement states: “Evidence from the autopsy conducted on the husband (January 4) has confirmed that the deceased sustained a single gunshot wound to the head from a small caliber weapon.” The wife remained hospitalized late last week after overnight surgery to repair injuries from having been shot once in the upper torso. An extensive recovery period is needed, but it’s expected she will recover. The Sheriff’s Office quoted the wife as saying the husband became verbally agitated over a discussion involving her decision to stay with relatives for a few days, at which time he informed her of his intent to take her life and commit suicide.