A 74-year-old Union County woman has been charged with murder after claiming she accidentally shot her husband last Friday afternoon, authorities said.
Shooting Reported as “Accidental”
The Union County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched around 2:26 p.m. on May 8 to a residence on Winding Way Drive on the west side of Monroe following a shots‑fired call. The initial caller, later identified as Patty Crook Griffin, told deputies she had accidentally shot her husband, Dennis Griffin, in the shoulder.
Deputies and other first responders arrived within minutes and began life‑saving measures. While providing aid, they discovered Dennis had actually suffered a gunshot wound to the chest, not the shoulder as initially claimed.
Investigation Reveals Intentional Shooting
During the investigation, detectives learned that Patty and Dennis Griffin had been involved in an argument about past events prior to the shooting. According to the sheriff’s office, investigators determined that Patty allegedly:
- Retrieved a .38‑caliber handgun
- Pointed the firearm at her husband
- Pulled the trigger, striking him in the chest
Authorities also believe Patty attempted to discard evidence before law enforcement arrived at the scene.
Charges and Custody
Patty Crook Griffin was arrested and charged with second‑degree murder, the sheriff’s office said. She was issued no bond and remains in custody at the Union County Detention Center.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials say the investigation is still active, and no further details have been released at this time.
