An Indiana man is accused of shooting and killing his wife before calmly greeting police officers at his front door and admitting to the crime, according to authorities.
Man Allegedly Confessed to Shooting Wife
James R. Chelf, 79, was arrested and charged with murder after police responded to his home in the Woodlake Estates Mobile Home Park in Yoder, Indiana, on Friday night.
According to court documents, Chelf allegedly told officers, “Just my dog and my dead wife,” when they asked if anyone else was inside the home.
Police said Chelf also admitted, “I just went nuts” and later added, “I’m sorry. I have no reason why.”
Victim Found With Multiple Gunshot Wounds
Authorities said officers discovered Chelf’s wife inside the home suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and bleeding from her head.
Investigators believe Chelf used a .38 Special Smith & Wesson revolver during the shooting. Police reportedly recovered the gun from the dining room table along with spent shell casings and live rounds.
Neighbor Called 911
According to investigators, Chelf walked to a neighbor’s house after the shooting and told them, “I just shot my wife.”
He allegedly asked the neighbor to call 911 before returning to his home to wait for police officers to arrive.
Argument Led to Shooting, Police Say
During an interview with investigators, Chelf reportedly said he and his wife had been arguing in their bedroom before the shooting happened.
He claimed he could not remember what the argument was about but admitted he shot her during the dispute.
Chelf is currently being held without bond at the Allen County Jail. He is scheduled to appear in court on June 8 for a trial-setting hearing.
