A 93-year-old man from Florida faces allegations of trying to kill his wife on two separate occasions this month.
Helmut Lockner and his spouse celebrated six decades of marriage when the events took place, as detailed in a report from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Lockner’s spouse informed the authorities that he frequently expressed his suffering and a desire to end his life. He faced allegations of attempting to suffocate her with a pillow, claiming that he “did not want to leave the woman alone.”
Two weeks later, Lockner stood up from his chair in the living room, approached her from behind, and attempted to strangle her with a rope, as detailed in the arrest report. Authorities reported that she sustained bruises and abrasions to her neck and chin as a result of the incident.
Lockner’s spouse managed to flee the residence and contacted emergency services from a secure place. During a discussion with authorities, Lockner allegedly expressed his intention to end his wife’s life before his own, citing his terminal condition and a desire to spare her loneliness.
The arrest report indicates that the 911 dispatcher heard Lockner stating, “You can die with me.”
A man has been taken into custody at the Marion County Jail facing two charges related to attempted first-degree murder.