Man Who Says He Shot And Killed Wife By 'Accident' To Be Charged With Murder

SAN BERNARDINO (AP) — Authorities say they plan to pursue murder charges against a San Bernardino County man who said he accidentally shot and killed his wife while trying to gun down an aggressive dog.

The shooting in the mountain community of Twin Peaks was initially ruled an accident, but county sheriff's detectives said Monday they believe Brant Bater's wife, Faith, was the intended target.

The 61-year-old suspect told detectives that he was trying to shoot the family dog that was being aggressive with him on Friday but hit his wife, who was shot in the head.

Bater was initially arrested and booked on suspicion of manslaughter, but detectives say they plan to recommend murder charges after uncovering additional evidence.

Bater is being held without bail.

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