Marion County Man Arrested for Attempted Murder in Domestic Incident
Authorities arrested 93-year-old Helmut Lockner on Saturday, October 26, following an alleged attempt to strangle his wife in their home. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to a domestic disturbance at the couple’s residence, where Lockner’s wife was found visibly shaken and bleeding.
According to the arrest report, Deputy Coleman and Deputy Trainee Sampedro arrived at the scene to find Lockner’s wife emerging from the patio, injured and distressed. Deputies discovered Lockner inside, speaking on the phone near a rope placed on the dining table. After separating the couple, Lockner’s wife recounted two incidents in which Lockner allegedly attempted to end her life.
The first reported incident took place two weeks prior, on October 12. Lockner’s wife stated that he expressed a desire to die and, while they were in bed, allegedly attempted to smother her with a pillow. Lockner reportedly told her he didn’t want to leave her alone, pressing down on her face with enough force to make it difficult for her to breathe. She managed to stop the assault and spoke with Lockner afterward, believing he would not repeat the violence.
However, on October 26, Lockner allegedly escalated his actions. While his wife was watching television, he reportedly approached her from behind, wrapping a rope around her neck in an attempt to strangle her. She managed to free herself and fled to the patio, calling 911. Deputies noted injuries on her neck, including bruises and lacerations, consistent with ligature strangulation.
Lockner allegedly admitted post-Miranda to both incidents, stating he planned to use the rope to hang himself after killing his wife. During the 911 call, he could be heard saying, “You can die with me.”
Following his arrest, Lockner was transported to a hospital for a medical evaluation before being taken to Marion County Jail. He faces charges of attempted first-degree murder and is being held without bond due to the severity of the allegations.
