A 93-year-old man from Marion County, Florida was taken into custody last weekend for attempting to kill his wife for the second time in a month. Helmut Lockner now faces two charges of attempted first-degree murder.
According to reports, Lockner’s wife called 911 after he allegedly wrapped a rope around her neck and tried to strangle her from behind, causing her to feel like her blood circulation was being cut off. The incident occurred in their home, where the couple had been living together for 60 years.
Lockner’s wife mentioned that the morning had started off normally, with the couple watching TV in separate chairs. She stated that Lockner had been expressing his desire to die due to pain he was experiencing, although this was something he commonly talked about. She did not pay much attention when he got up and approached her chair, leading to the sudden attack.
Fortunately, the woman was able to free herself from Lockner’s grasp and call 911 from a safe location. During the call, the dispatcher overheard Lockner telling his wife, “You can die with me.”
In her statement to the authorities, Lockner’s wife revealed that he had previously tried to suffocate her with a pillow two weeks prior. She managed to convince him to stop, believing that he wouldn’t harm her again. Lockner later confessed to law enforcement that his intention was to end his wife’s life before taking his own.
Following his arrest, Lockner was taken to the hospital for evaluation and then transferred to Marion County Jail. Deputies have requested that he be held without bond.
This shocking incident sheds light on the complexities of long-term relationships and the challenges that can arise in later years. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and support when facing difficult emotions or situations, rather than resorting to violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing distress, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
