The Union County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to 707 Winding Way in Monroe, North Carolina, in reference to a shots-fired call at approximately 2:26pm. The female caller, later identified as 74 year old Patty Griffin, claimed she had accidentally shot her husband, Dennis Griffin in the shoulder.

Deputies arrived on scene within minutes, secured the residence, and began life-saving measures alongside other first responders. While rendering aid, it became apparent that the male victim had sustained a gunshot wound to the chest, not the shoulder as initially reported.

During the investigation, detectives learned that Patty had been arguing with Dennis about past events. Investigators determined that she retrieved a .38-caliber handgun, pointed it at Dennis, and pulled the trigger.

After shooting her husband she then attempted to discard evidence before law enforcement could arrive. Due to the evidence and coordination with the Union County District Attorney’s Office Patty was arrested and transported to the Union County Detention Center.

Patty was charged with Second Degree Murder. She was seen by a Judicial Official who issued her a No Bond and she is currently still housed at the Union County Detention Center.

This is still an ongoing investigation.